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Vlad Taltos #10
Dzur
In which Vlad Taltos confronts the Left Hand of the Jhereg...and discovers the game has more players than he thought
Vlad Taltos, short-statured, short-lived human in an Empire of tall, long-lived Dragaerans, has always had to keep his wits about him. Long ago, he made a place for himself as a captain of the Jhereg, the noble house that runs the rackets in the great imperial city of Adrilankha. But love, revolution, betrayal, and revenge ensued, and for years now Vlad has been a man on the run, struggling to stay a step ahead of the Jhereg who would kill him without hesitation.
Now Vlad's back in Adrilankha. The rackets he used to run are now under the control of the mysterious "Left Hand of the Jhereg"--a secretive cabal of women who report to no man. His ex-wife needs his help. His old enemies aren't sure whether they want to kill him, or talk to him and then kill him. A goddess may be playing tricks with his memory. And the Great Weapon he's carrying seems to have plans of its own...
Picking up directly where Issola left off, Dzur gives us Vlad Taltos at his best--swashbuckling storytelling with a wry and gritty edge.
Vlad Taltos, short-statured, short-lived human in an Empire of tall, long-lived Dragaerans, has always had to keep his wits about him. Long ago, he made a place for himself as a captain of the Jhereg, the noble house that runs the rackets in the great imperial city of Adrilankha. But love, revolution, betrayal, and revenge ensued, and for years now Vlad has been a man on the run, struggling to stay a step ahead of the Jhereg who would kill him without hesitation.
Now Vlad's back in Adrilankha. The rackets he used to run are now under the control of the mysterious "Left Hand of the Jhereg"--a secretive cabal of women who report to no man. His ex-wife needs his help. His old enemies aren't sure whether they want to kill him, or talk to him and then kill him. A goddess may be playing tricks with his memory. And the Great Weapon he's carrying seems to have plans of its own...
Picking up directly where Issola left off, Dzur gives us Vlad Taltos at his best--swashbuckling storytelling with a wry and gritty edge.
285 pages, Hardcover
First published August 8, 2006
About the author
Steven Brust
94 books2,241 followersSteven Karl Zoltán Brust (born November 23, 1955) is an American fantasy and science fiction author of Hungarian descent. He was a member of the writers' group The Scribblies, which included Emma Bull, Pamela Dean, Will Shetterly, Nate Bucklin, Kara Dalkey, and Patricia Wrede, and also belongs to the Pre-Joycean Fellowship.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/steven...
(Photo by David Dyer-Bennet)
http://us.macmillan.com/author/steven...
(Photo by David Dyer-Bennet)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
June 19, 2022
3.5 stars
Who's your favourite smart cracking ex-assassin? Vlad Taltos, of course. This is the volume where he has to deal, at least a little bit, with his past. Although he used to kill people for a living, Vlad makes friends rather easily. And he doesn't much care if they're Easterners or one of the many sorts of Dragnerians. Which explains why he's back in Adrilankha. His ex-wife, Cawti, is in trouble and Vlad is determined to iron things out for her, whether she wants help or not.
So, he gets the tour of his old stomping grounds: the house his grandfather used to live in, his old office, his favourite restaurant. In fact, Brust uses the opulent meal at this restaurant as a structure for the book, with each chapter headed by a description of a meal course. And his discussions with a Dzur lord who has joined him, hence the title of this volume.
After his time spent wandering the wilderness, it's nice to have him back in the old neighbourhood and speaking civilly to Cawti. But just like a long elaborate meal, there was a lot of pausing and resting along the way. The pace is leisurely and like Loiosh, I got impatient from time to time. While the final confrontation worked, plot-wise, it was a bit of an anticlimax. Perhaps the very final reveal made it worthwhile?
Book Number 460 of my Science Fiction and Fantasy Reading Project
Who's your favourite smart cracking ex-assassin? Vlad Taltos, of course. This is the volume where he has to deal, at least a little bit, with his past. Although he used to kill people for a living, Vlad makes friends rather easily. And he doesn't much care if they're Easterners or one of the many sorts of Dragnerians. Which explains why he's back in Adrilankha. His ex-wife, Cawti, is in trouble and Vlad is determined to iron things out for her, whether she wants help or not.
So, he gets the tour of his old stomping grounds: the house his grandfather used to live in, his old office, his favourite restaurant. In fact, Brust uses the opulent meal at this restaurant as a structure for the book, with each chapter headed by a description of a meal course. And his discussions with a Dzur lord who has joined him, hence the title of this volume.
After his time spent wandering the wilderness, it's nice to have him back in the old neighbourhood and speaking civilly to Cawti. But just like a long elaborate meal, there was a lot of pausing and resting along the way. The pace is leisurely and like Loiosh, I got impatient from time to time. While the final confrontation worked, plot-wise, it was a bit of an anticlimax. Perhaps the very final reveal made it worthwhile?
Book Number 460 of my Science Fiction and Fantasy Reading Project
February 9, 2017
Definitely not the worst of the series, it follows right after the previous book and firmly brings Vlad back into his hometown, and much to my relief. It's a very decent read, self-contained, and of course it had to do with his ex-wife. :) What return to his old haunt with intentions of resuming a semblance of his old life after making such an enjoyable hash of it would be right without making sure that his Ex was involved?
The whole novel was enjoyable, but it wasn't huge except for the whole assassinating his goddess or taking down a whole room full of sorcerers, though. You know, little things. :)
What? Assassinating his goddess? Well... she has it coming. ;) It's complicated. You know how relationship problems are. :)
Nice return, but not precisely epic like that last one. *sigh*
The whole novel was enjoyable, but it wasn't huge except for the whole assassinating his goddess or taking down a whole room full of sorcerers, though. You know, little things. :)
What? Assassinating his goddess? Well... she has it coming. ;) It's complicated. You know how relationship problems are. :)
Nice return, but not precisely epic like that last one. *sigh*
May 20, 2024
This may not be the strongest in the series, but still, what a fun read and delivered in a clever, smart way. Dzur takes place immediately after the previous installment, with Vald leaving his sorcerous friends and gods and returning to the 'city'; more specifically, his favorite restaurant there. Each chapter starts with a brief depiction of the food (many courses!) and someone idle speculations on the connections between cooking and killing well...
New problems have arisen in the city since Vlad fled a few years ago. Among the Jhereg, the top boss dies and still a low-key power struggle among the top members persists (low key as there are not bodies everywhere). Second, the Left Hand Jhereg (e.g., the 'Bitch Patrol') Jhereg have gone into the mob business in the Eastern quarter of the city, and that threatens Cawti, Vlad's ex-wife, who was running the rackets there. So, Vlad, a hunted man by most Jhereg for his previous deeds has to somehow figure out a way to call off the Bitch Patrol (a group of every experiences sorceresses) while staying alive in a place crawling with assassins just dying to get the bounty on his head...
I still do not really enjoy Vlad's relationship with Cawti; maybe due to it being romance, or perhaps Brust, for all this talents, just does not do romance well. In any case, this aspect plays just a secondary role here-- Vlad must still sort out a tricky deal, even if the motivation concerns his wife. The snark is in top form. You know what I mean boss? 4 stars.
New problems have arisen in the city since Vlad fled a few years ago. Among the Jhereg, the top boss dies and still a low-key power struggle among the top members persists (low key as there are not bodies everywhere). Second, the Left Hand Jhereg (e.g., the 'Bitch Patrol') Jhereg have gone into the mob business in the Eastern quarter of the city, and that threatens Cawti, Vlad's ex-wife, who was running the rackets there. So, Vlad, a hunted man by most Jhereg for his previous deeds has to somehow figure out a way to call off the Bitch Patrol (a group of every experiences sorceresses) while staying alive in a place crawling with assassins just dying to get the bounty on his head...
I still do not really enjoy Vlad's relationship with Cawti; maybe due to it being romance, or perhaps Brust, for all this talents, just does not do romance well. In any case, this aspect plays just a secondary role here-- Vlad must still sort out a tricky deal, even if the motivation concerns his wife. The snark is in top form. You know what I mean boss? 4 stars.
December 10, 2012
This book was a bit special (to be read as personal) to me. For I, got to prepare and cook the whole meal in Steve's kitchen, to be written about. Don't believe me?, Re-read the acknowledgments of this book. (When Steve handed me a copy of this book, he said, 'you never truly exist unless you're acknowledged in a book'.)
As always, Steve, thank you, it was my pleasure to cook for you. I hope that one day, I will get to have the pleasure again.
Every last detail of this meal was me. The planning of the menu, we both did. Food porn in the making. It was an experience that I will always remember. (Recipes are for sale for about a million dollars, each.)
The story, in a word, EPIC! (As are all the other Vlad Taltos books.)
I highly recommend this book and all the Vlad Taltos books to everyone.
As always, Steve, thank you, it was my pleasure to cook for you. I hope that one day, I will get to have the pleasure again.
Every last detail of this meal was me. The planning of the menu, we both did. Food porn in the making. It was an experience that I will always remember. (Recipes are for sale for about a million dollars, each.)
The story, in a word, EPIC! (As are all the other Vlad Taltos books.)
I highly recommend this book and all the Vlad Taltos books to everyone.
June 25, 2022
Book 10 in the Vlad Taltos series. Another re-read.
I won't go into the main plot; the book synopsis pretty much sums up the happenings. This book begins a few hours after the last book, Issola, ended.
The story is told by Vlad in first person. What differentiates this one from the rest of the series are the openings to each chapter. I love these! Since the beginning of the series many characters have referred to a restaurant named Valabar's. Apparently it's the equivalent of a prestigious three-Michelin-starred restaurant in our world. Each chapter begins with Vlad, and his Dzur dining companion, enjoying a different course of their meal. That sounds dull but it is decidedly not. At Valabar's it's not just about the food and wine. It's also about the presentation, the anticipation, and the sensory delight of the patrons. Vlad has an almost mystical experience during each course as he savors the dish. It's great! These openers also obliquely refer to the present moment of the plot. This one has always stayed with me over the years just for these fun chapter beginnings.
There was also significant character development in this book. Vlad is looking at things a lot differently than he used to. Also, his friendships with Kragar, Sethra Lavode, and Kiera have really deepened. A surprise appearance by someone only mentioned in passing throughout the series was also very welcomed.
I won't go into the main plot; the book synopsis pretty much sums up the happenings. This book begins a few hours after the last book, Issola, ended.
The story is told by Vlad in first person. What differentiates this one from the rest of the series are the openings to each chapter. I love these! Since the beginning of the series many characters have referred to a restaurant named Valabar's. Apparently it's the equivalent of a prestigious three-Michelin-starred restaurant in our world. Each chapter begins with Vlad, and his Dzur dining companion, enjoying a different course of their meal. That sounds dull but it is decidedly not. At Valabar's it's not just about the food and wine. It's also about the presentation, the anticipation, and the sensory delight of the patrons. Vlad has an almost mystical experience during each course as he savors the dish. It's great! These openers also obliquely refer to the present moment of the plot. This one has always stayed with me over the years just for these fun chapter beginnings.
There was also significant character development in this book. Vlad is looking at things a lot differently than he used to. Also, his friendships with Kragar, Sethra Lavode, and Kiera have really deepened. A surprise appearance by someone only mentioned in passing throughout the series was also very welcomed.
April 1, 2021
Dzur is the tenth book in Steven Brust's Vlad Taltos series. In it, Vlad finds himself back in South Adrilankha, in the middle of the mess he left.
Some important characters are introduced, a few more important details are revealed, but otherwise the main story arc is not advanced all that much. This did not detract from my enjoyment of the book, however. Dzur was a lot like having a long lunch with Vlad at Valabar's on a weekday afternoon and listening to him tell a story. It reminds me of the first scene from the movie Pulp Fiction.
As a minor criticism, I think Brust could have easily resolved Vlad's problems with the Jhereg in this book, and maybe cut a few of the Valabar's scenes. Not enough of a complaint to take off a star, and I enjoyed Dzur exactly as it is. Besides, I'm assuming he will dedicate an entire book to the Jhereg story, which makes perfect sense.
Some important characters are introduced, a few more important details are revealed, but otherwise the main story arc is not advanced all that much. This did not detract from my enjoyment of the book, however. Dzur was a lot like having a long lunch with Vlad at Valabar's on a weekday afternoon and listening to him tell a story. It reminds me of the first scene from the movie Pulp Fiction.
As a minor criticism, I think Brust could have easily resolved Vlad's problems with the Jhereg in this book, and maybe cut a few of the Valabar's scenes. Not enough of a complaint to take off a star, and I enjoyed Dzur exactly as it is. Besides, I'm assuming he will dedicate an entire book to the Jhereg story, which makes perfect sense.
October 23, 2014
15Nov2012: It's been far too long since I read this & haven't read any of the following books, which I now have. I'd kind of like to re-read the series, but have too many other books on the pile, so I'll settle for re-reading this one & move on to the rest.
I gave it 4 stars previously, but I'm knocking that back to 3. It was pretty good, with a twisty problem, but there wasn't as much action as I recalled & the way it wound up was a little too fast, uneven & convenient. Each chapter was started with a glimpse into a sumptuous feast that had thoughts or musings that were akin to what happened in the present day. It was an interesting idea, but I found it wearing at times. Some were a stretch & others just boring. For the most part, it was an interesting device, though.
I'm going to read one more Vlad novel, but then I think I'll take a break. Hopefully I won't stay away so long.
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15Jun2008: Better than some of the previous books, which is saying something. All of the books in this series have been entertaining.
I gave it 4 stars previously, but I'm knocking that back to 3. It was pretty good, with a twisty problem, but there wasn't as much action as I recalled & the way it wound up was a little too fast, uneven & convenient. Each chapter was started with a glimpse into a sumptuous feast that had thoughts or musings that were akin to what happened in the present day. It was an interesting idea, but I found it wearing at times. Some were a stretch & others just boring. For the most part, it was an interesting device, though.
I'm going to read one more Vlad novel, but then I think I'll take a break. Hopefully I won't stay away so long.
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15Jun2008: Better than some of the previous books, which is saying something. All of the books in this series have been entertaining.
February 5, 2009
One of the weaker Vlad entries. It’s not bad, but there’s not much point to it. Very little character development takes place, and there’s almost no advancement of the larger themes and mysteries of the series. It’s just a standard, fairly uninteresting Vlad adventure, more of what we’ve seen before. The one aspect of the book that could have been really powerful is relegated to a brief mention in the epilogue, and the epilogue then ends on a teaser that’s almost unforgivable. This just feels like a colossal missed opportunity.
April 11, 2008
It's been a while since Brust has had anything published and I had forgotten this was finally out in paperback. Vlad Taltos is back in Adrilanka and is back in trouble - this time on the behalf of his ex-wife Cawti. I enjoy Brust's books, and this one was witty and fun. I particularily liked the "interludes" of Vlad describing a 7 course meal from his favorite restaurant. What I didn't care for was Vlad wandering around Adrilanka in disguise, wondering what to do about his predicament. It became tiresome.
Still, I look forward to the next book. I always do.
Still, I look forward to the next book. I always do.
March 20, 2015
In Dzur, the tenth book in Steven Brust’s VLAD TALTOS series, Vlad is finally back in the city of Adrilankha. I suspect that most fans will be thrilled to return to that decadent cosmopolitan city; it’s just so much more interesting than watching Vlad roam around the countryside. Fittingly, each of the chapters in Dzur is named for one of the items Vlad is served at his favorite restaurant during a gourmet meal that runs parallel to the main plot of Dzur. (Vlad, an assassin by trade, is quite the foodie and, while he dines, he often points out the analogies between preparing a gourmet dinner and preparing to make a hit.)
So, he’s back in Adrilankha eating with a new Dzurlord in his favorite restaurant and telling us what happened just after the events of the last book, Issola ... Read More: http://www.fantasyliterature.com/revi...
So, he’s back in Adrilankha eating with a new Dzurlord in his favorite restaurant and telling us what happened just after the events of the last book, Issola ... Read More: http://www.fantasyliterature.com/revi...
August 18, 2022
Vlad finds out that his wife's criminal enterprise, which she'd tried to walk away from is not only in jeopardy but the Left Hand (female magic users of the same house) is trying not only to take over but also kill Vlad. It's always convoluted for this poor guy. The story is told interspersed with Vlad having dinner with a Dzurlord warrior at Valbar's, one of the city's best dining establishment. It's an odd way to tell a story but Brust pulls it off.
December 29, 2023
I think this one is my favorite in terms of repartee, sprinkling of philosophy, plot and how he got out of the main problem. It built on all the previous books and moved in character in a new direction. Plus the delightful foodie descriptions. Can't wait to read the next
February 3, 2018
Not my favorite of this series, but still a great read.
October 16, 2019
This book's story is overshadowed by all the long-awaited reunions that occurred, but it was great nonetheless... ends on the 2nd sentimental cliffhanger in a row, tho...
December 28, 2022
A sort of filler for the main plot, but entertaining nonetheless.
June 16, 2009
It's been a while since I've read any of the Taltos novels, but as someone who's enjoyed most of what Brust has written, when I saw this one available in paperback, I had to grab it (and I eagerly await Jhegaala in paperback at the end of this month.)
Overall, it's an entertaining read, although it suffers from rather odd pacing and a bit of an anticlimactic conflict resolution. Vlad spends much of the middle of the novel wandering around in disguise frustrated that he can't figure out what to do, and that's where the pacing issues come in -- some of that same frustration carried over to me as a reader.
That said, though, the chapter beginnings with the descriptions of the meals at Valabar's are wonderful, and the introduction of the first of the new Lavodes (the Dzur hero from whom the book takes its title) promised another very interesting character added to the strong assortment of supporting cast members. Likewise, there's a healthy dose of Vlad's usual wit and style, which really helps to make for a fun read.
Definitely not the strongest of the Taltos novels, and most assuredly not a good starting point for new readers, but for those who have been following the series for some time, there are some nice new details and the return of some old friends.
Overall, it's an entertaining read, although it suffers from rather odd pacing and a bit of an anticlimactic conflict resolution. Vlad spends much of the middle of the novel wandering around in disguise frustrated that he can't figure out what to do, and that's where the pacing issues come in -- some of that same frustration carried over to me as a reader.
That said, though, the chapter beginnings with the descriptions of the meals at Valabar's are wonderful, and the introduction of the first of the new Lavodes (the Dzur hero from whom the book takes its title) promised another very interesting character added to the strong assortment of supporting cast members. Likewise, there's a healthy dose of Vlad's usual wit and style, which really helps to make for a fun read.
Definitely not the strongest of the Taltos novels, and most assuredly not a good starting point for new readers, but for those who have been following the series for some time, there are some nice new details and the return of some old friends.
September 16, 2010
This is once again a fabulous addition to the Vlad Taltos series. I rather enjoyed eating with Vlad at Valabar and Sons. I wonder if they'll open one up in LA. Brust certainly has a way of putting food to pen then pen to paper. But enough of that.
Though Vlad has been on the run for years from the Right-Hand of the Jhereg, he finds that he must face them once again. His journey begins at Valabar's, Vlads favorite restaurant. Sethra Lavode is concerned about Vlad's safety so she sends a Dzurlord to watch over him. Here is where we also finaly get to meet Mario Greymist, the most feared assassin in the Jhereg, who agrees to help him. Cawti, his wife, or rather ex-wife, is in desperate trouble and reluctantly agrees to accept Vlads help. The Left-Hand of the Jhereg, a cabal of sorceress women, has deviously taken over South Adrilanka and upsetting the lives of the Easterners. The only way to stop the sorceress Left-Hand, he must confront the corrupt Right-Hand.
Yet another fantastic addition to the series.
May 1, 2012
Don’t read this when you’re on a diet. Brust is fond of framing his stories, and this one is framed by an exquisite feast - each course described in loving, succulent detail at the beginning of each chapter.
The plot? Oh, something about the Jhereg and Vlad’s ex-wife and South Adrilankha and Vlad’s new Great Weapon. I’m already forgetting. But Brust’s writing is amusing, and this a nice enough read.
We finally get to meet: I was a little underwhelmed.
The plot? Oh, something about the Jhereg and Vlad’s ex-wife and South Adrilankha and Vlad’s new Great Weapon. I’m already forgetting. But Brust’s writing is amusing, and this a nice enough read.
We finally get to meet: I was a little underwhelmed.
May 9, 2012
This installment of the series doesn't really stand out for me. It's an entertaining read, and the interludes which draw connections between specific courses of a many-course fancy dinner and specific sections of the plot are both amusing and revealing. Also, I'm always happy when one book follows the plot directly from the previous book, as this one does. Otherwise, there's some character development, we hear more about Vlad's new weapon, and life goes on.
February 15, 2024
“Dzur” is, surprisingly enough, an immediate sequel to “Issola”. At the end of that book, Vlad, having gone through a fairly harrowing experience that left him feeling somewhat contemptuous of the dangers of being hunted by the Jhereg — compared to the Jenoine, they are fairly small potatoes: plus, he has a Great Weapon now — decided to go eat at Valabar’s, in Adrilankha. And at the beginning of “Dzur”, he goes to eat at Valabar’s, where he is shortly joined by a Dzur, an apprentice Lavode. Part of the book is a description of the meal — I’m not super into this kind of food writing, but your mileage may vary — and of their conversation, which is a good example of the kind of odd couple dynamic — Dzur hero vs. human ex-assassin — that Brust likes to break out. The rest, however, has very little to do with the Dzur: instead, it’s mostly about the Left Hand of the Jhereg. It turns out that the old adage about the right hand not knowing what the left is up to is entirely applicable in this situation: the Left Hand is, it seems, largely independent of the Right. Certainly there is no central controlling authority directing them to operate together. In fact, we learn that while the House of the Jhereg is quite old, the Left Hand is a fairly recent (on Dragaeran timescales) development. Which leaves me wondering about the Jhereg, and how it works. In “Jhereg”, Aliera explains that the House, having started as a mishmash of rejections from the other proto-houses, is now its own House in truth, with its own recognizable genetic signature, just as the other houses have. But somehow we never meet any female Jhereg: the exceptions that prove the rule are Kiera, Norathar, and Cawti, who are female (in two cases former) Jhereg but were not born into that house. This is all the more confusing as Dragaeran society is noticeably not big on gender roles. Male and Female Dragons seem to serve in the army as soldiers in roughly equal numbers; ditto male and female Orca as sailors on ships; but if somebody is going to break your kneecaps because you’re behind on your payments to the local loan shark, they will, it seems, always be male. The Left Hand didn’t exactly solve this puzzle, but at least it explained what the female Jhereg were up to: apparently, they all signed up to be sorcerers instead of enforcers or assassins. But now we learn that’s not true either, so the mystery of the missing Jhereg women remains.
Regardless, the meat of the book arrives with the other person who drops in on Vlad at Valabar’s, none other than Mario Greymist. Luckily for Vlad, he is here in his private capacity (as Aliera's boyfriend) rather than his professional capacity (as an assassin looking for someone with a large price on his head). Mario explains that the Left Hand is making a move on South Adrilankha, which is still Cawti’s territory: they want to take over its criminal networks, the way that a boss in the Organization might. Why they are engaging in this kind of behavior, otherwise quite uncharacteristic for them, is unclear, but the risk is obvious: Norathar will defend Cawti if she is genuinely threatened, and that can’t end well. Under the right circumstances, there might even be another Dragon-Jhereg war. Since the whole mess is, arguably, Vlad’s fault, it falls to him to try to do something about it, in, given the title of the book, Dzur fashion: viz., he makes himself a target to draw out his enemies, and then takes care of them. In this case, non-violently, thanks to a bit of divine intervention: I imagine that Brust got a kick out of setting up a scenario in which a deus ex machina solution is reasonable. The fact that this particular method of solving problems is not unique to “Dzur” is not as surprising as it may seem: Vlad may not be a Dzur hero, but he is a hero, and there are bound to be some underlying similarities in approach. Nonetheless, it’s clear that the Left Hand has only been temporarily baulked, not permanently defanged: it turns out that an organization of sorceresses is an extremely dangerous opponent, arguably even more so than the Jhereg itself. Vlad has gained a Great Weapon — though not yet a fully operational one, it seems; at some point, Lady Teldra will wake up, but that hasn’t happened yet — but to balance the scales, he’s also gained a powerful new enemy. Which seems to me to be a slightly questionable move — we’re about halfway through the series at this point, it seems like we should know all the important players by now — but Brust has earned the benefit of the doubt, and Dzur is a nice bounce-back after the slight misstep of Issola.
Regardless, the meat of the book arrives with the other person who drops in on Vlad at Valabar’s, none other than Mario Greymist. Luckily for Vlad, he is here in his private capacity (as Aliera's boyfriend) rather than his professional capacity (as an assassin looking for someone with a large price on his head). Mario explains that the Left Hand is making a move on South Adrilankha, which is still Cawti’s territory: they want to take over its criminal networks, the way that a boss in the Organization might. Why they are engaging in this kind of behavior, otherwise quite uncharacteristic for them, is unclear, but the risk is obvious: Norathar will defend Cawti if she is genuinely threatened, and that can’t end well. Under the right circumstances, there might even be another Dragon-Jhereg war. Since the whole mess is, arguably, Vlad’s fault, it falls to him to try to do something about it, in, given the title of the book, Dzur fashion: viz., he makes himself a target to draw out his enemies, and then takes care of them. In this case, non-violently, thanks to a bit of divine intervention: I imagine that Brust got a kick out of setting up a scenario in which a deus ex machina solution is reasonable. The fact that this particular method of solving problems is not unique to “Dzur” is not as surprising as it may seem: Vlad may not be a Dzur hero, but he is a hero, and there are bound to be some underlying similarities in approach. Nonetheless, it’s clear that the Left Hand has only been temporarily baulked, not permanently defanged: it turns out that an organization of sorceresses is an extremely dangerous opponent, arguably even more so than the Jhereg itself. Vlad has gained a Great Weapon — though not yet a fully operational one, it seems; at some point, Lady Teldra will wake up, but that hasn’t happened yet — but to balance the scales, he’s also gained a powerful new enemy. Which seems to me to be a slightly questionable move — we’re about halfway through the series at this point, it seems like we should know all the important players by now — but Brust has earned the benefit of the doubt, and Dzur is a nice bounce-back after the slight misstep of Issola.
August 28, 2012
I think my previous review still stands. This one's a bit tedious, but I enjoyed meeting Telnan, and I...appreciate getting some depth on the humans in Adrilanka. And Vlad's new weapon. And the scene with Verra. And there are a few really good lines.
Review from September 26, 2006:
This is going to be hard. This book picks up seconds after the one in the Vladimir Taltos series that comes before it, Issola. In that one, he proclaimed that he was going to go eat at his favorite restaurant even though he was a wanted man by the sneakiest House in the Dragaeran Empire. And in this one, he does just that.
Within no time at all, he’s got a dining partner and a visitor and shortly after that he’s off on another adventure. The Organization he was a part of until he betrayed them and ran is undergoing a change. It has two sides, called the Right Hand and the Left Hand. The Right Hand of the Jhereg tend to illegally running all the venues of gambling and prostitution and the like that would be legal if only they paid taxes. Vlad was an assassin for them and a damn interesting one. So was his wife and it’s her that gets him in trouble.
They split before he ran and he gave her the human part of town to run. But now, the Left Hand of the Jhereg—made up of female sorcerers—is taking over and nobody knows their motives. Vlad’s estranged wife needs helps and though she would be loath to actually ask for it, being Vlad, he’s going to figure out what’s going on anyway.
Feeling lost? Don’t feel bad; you’re coming in at the middle of the story. In Brust’s world, there are humans and there are Dragaerans, who are taller and have animal characteristics—slightly. I have to say “slightly” or you’ll see this is the fantasy genre and go crazy on me.
And I’ll tell you what I really think:
For those that don’t know, this is tenth in a series that’s more addictive than World of Warcraft, but it’s good for you. Every book is a quick read where you’re hooked by the second sentence and you’re already tied up in the plot by the second page. They’re crazy-good. I hate the thought of series that go past three books. Hell, I hate the thought of series, really. But if you don’t love Vladimir Taltos by the time he makes his first sarcastic remark, then I have no idea how to talk to you.
By the way, the first book in this series, Jhereg, was the first fantasy book that I ever finished. I had tried a couple, a couple that came highly recommended, and I was not interested. But in the summer of 2003 the only books in the house that I hadn’t read belonged to my husfriend, and were fantasy. Somehow, he managed to convince me to read that book and I tore through the rest he owned (five of them) before the week was out. And I’m not actually that fast of a reader. We made a trip into town and purchased the published books that we didn’t have and in another week I was all caught up. (There’s one book in there that’s actually not quite as fantastic as the others, but it only seems that way because of how great the others are.)
Scenery/Setting: Ha! I need to eliminate this section for all the good it does me. It just furthers my theory that you actually don’t have to paint every damn thing for readers to see. Reading is about using your imagination. It’s the writer’s job to get that going and provide direction and Brust does that very well. He even manages to do it in a quipping style that makes the descriptions vivid and natural.
Characters: It’s all about Vlad. He rocks. And almost all the books are told from his first person point-of-view. He’s cynical, but fun. Even in the most dire of situations he can have you shaking your head at his audacity and banter. He’s a human in a city run by Dragaerans and he is even part of a Dragaeran House. It is the only House that allows humans to buy titles within it, but it still puts this edge on him that makes him even more fantastic. The entire series reminds me of listening to my brothers tell stories, the kind of stories where you forget where you are and just go back with them. Vlad has that strong personality and presence that leads you there.
Telnan is the Dragaeran that joins Vlad for his meal at Valabar’s. He is of the Dzur House and acts far less “serious about dueling” as most Dzurs. He shows wonder at the world around him and cracks a smile much easier than others of his House. He’s also Sethra’s student, though I’m never quite sure what that means. I believe that’s intended, though, since Sethra herself is a big mystery. But not one of those tear-your-hair-out or even roll-your-eyes kind of mysteries—one of those mysteries that intrigues you the way real people do.
There was a little from Vlad’s wife, but not much. She got on my nerves less than she has in previous times, but I will never love her as much as I did in the book where she killed Vlad. I would explain that, but I like it better this way. Makes you wonder, doesn’t it?
Ah, Kiera the Thief made a few appearances and I always love that.
My favorite character of the series wasn’t in this one, but they do mention him a couple of times. He has a good excuse for his absence and Vlad has a good excuse for not going to see him, but I still missed Morrolan terribly. I guess it doesn’t do to go on and on about him when he wasn’t even in this book, though, huh? Aw.
There are a few others, and all of them have these distinct and vivid personalities that make them so utterly real. It might seem a little much, but they were all introduced in previous tales and introduced in such a way that I never forget them. I'm even always waiting to see them again, to see what they’re up to now. Brust definitely takes the cake on making memorable characters. Wow.
Plot: Classic Vlad, except he didn’t kill anybody. At least, not on purpose. He puts in a lot of waiting around to see just what’s going on with the Left Hand of the Jhereg and what they’re doing in South Adrilankha (where the humans live.) It would be boring if it was anybody else, but Vlad finds himself battling his patron Goddess, Verra, and even finding out that---yeah, I won't spoil that. ;-)
He also has plenty of conflict in that he’s afraid of relying on any of his old friends because the Jhereg want him dead and he doesn’t want them caught helping him. Then, Kragar enters the picture anyway, when Vlad has no choice but to go see him. Kragar is highly entertaining.
Man, there’s so much going on in the plot that it’s hard to nail it down and in truth, I don’t want to. It’s so much better to hold this canvas in my head and remember how it felt when everything came together. That’s vintage Vlad for you.
Overall: I liked that the prologue was Vlad’s meal at Valabar’s, skipping over the meal itself. Then, each chapter started with a short excerpt from Vlad’s meal with Telnan, retelling it course by course. It tied in with each chapter in a delightful way. It was almost as good as his style of going over the climatic spell step-by-step at the beginning of each chapter in Taltos.
Review from September 26, 2006:
This is going to be hard. This book picks up seconds after the one in the Vladimir Taltos series that comes before it, Issola. In that one, he proclaimed that he was going to go eat at his favorite restaurant even though he was a wanted man by the sneakiest House in the Dragaeran Empire. And in this one, he does just that.
Within no time at all, he’s got a dining partner and a visitor and shortly after that he’s off on another adventure. The Organization he was a part of until he betrayed them and ran is undergoing a change. It has two sides, called the Right Hand and the Left Hand. The Right Hand of the Jhereg tend to illegally running all the venues of gambling and prostitution and the like that would be legal if only they paid taxes. Vlad was an assassin for them and a damn interesting one. So was his wife and it’s her that gets him in trouble.
They split before he ran and he gave her the human part of town to run. But now, the Left Hand of the Jhereg—made up of female sorcerers—is taking over and nobody knows their motives. Vlad’s estranged wife needs helps and though she would be loath to actually ask for it, being Vlad, he’s going to figure out what’s going on anyway.
Feeling lost? Don’t feel bad; you’re coming in at the middle of the story. In Brust’s world, there are humans and there are Dragaerans, who are taller and have animal characteristics—slightly. I have to say “slightly” or you’ll see this is the fantasy genre and go crazy on me.
And I’ll tell you what I really think:
For those that don’t know, this is tenth in a series that’s more addictive than World of Warcraft, but it’s good for you. Every book is a quick read where you’re hooked by the second sentence and you’re already tied up in the plot by the second page. They’re crazy-good. I hate the thought of series that go past three books. Hell, I hate the thought of series, really. But if you don’t love Vladimir Taltos by the time he makes his first sarcastic remark, then I have no idea how to talk to you.
By the way, the first book in this series, Jhereg, was the first fantasy book that I ever finished. I had tried a couple, a couple that came highly recommended, and I was not interested. But in the summer of 2003 the only books in the house that I hadn’t read belonged to my husfriend, and were fantasy. Somehow, he managed to convince me to read that book and I tore through the rest he owned (five of them) before the week was out. And I’m not actually that fast of a reader. We made a trip into town and purchased the published books that we didn’t have and in another week I was all caught up. (There’s one book in there that’s actually not quite as fantastic as the others, but it only seems that way because of how great the others are.)
Scenery/Setting: Ha! I need to eliminate this section for all the good it does me. It just furthers my theory that you actually don’t have to paint every damn thing for readers to see. Reading is about using your imagination. It’s the writer’s job to get that going and provide direction and Brust does that very well. He even manages to do it in a quipping style that makes the descriptions vivid and natural.
Characters: It’s all about Vlad. He rocks. And almost all the books are told from his first person point-of-view. He’s cynical, but fun. Even in the most dire of situations he can have you shaking your head at his audacity and banter. He’s a human in a city run by Dragaerans and he is even part of a Dragaeran House. It is the only House that allows humans to buy titles within it, but it still puts this edge on him that makes him even more fantastic. The entire series reminds me of listening to my brothers tell stories, the kind of stories where you forget where you are and just go back with them. Vlad has that strong personality and presence that leads you there.
Telnan is the Dragaeran that joins Vlad for his meal at Valabar’s. He is of the Dzur House and acts far less “serious about dueling” as most Dzurs. He shows wonder at the world around him and cracks a smile much easier than others of his House. He’s also Sethra’s student, though I’m never quite sure what that means. I believe that’s intended, though, since Sethra herself is a big mystery. But not one of those tear-your-hair-out or even roll-your-eyes kind of mysteries—one of those mysteries that intrigues you the way real people do.
There was a little from Vlad’s wife, but not much. She got on my nerves less than she has in previous times, but I will never love her as much as I did in the book where she killed Vlad. I would explain that, but I like it better this way. Makes you wonder, doesn’t it?
Ah, Kiera the Thief made a few appearances and I always love that.
My favorite character of the series wasn’t in this one, but they do mention him a couple of times. He has a good excuse for his absence and Vlad has a good excuse for not going to see him, but I still missed Morrolan terribly. I guess it doesn’t do to go on and on about him when he wasn’t even in this book, though, huh? Aw.
There are a few others, and all of them have these distinct and vivid personalities that make them so utterly real. It might seem a little much, but they were all introduced in previous tales and introduced in such a way that I never forget them. I'm even always waiting to see them again, to see what they’re up to now. Brust definitely takes the cake on making memorable characters. Wow.
Plot: Classic Vlad, except he didn’t kill anybody. At least, not on purpose. He puts in a lot of waiting around to see just what’s going on with the Left Hand of the Jhereg and what they’re doing in South Adrilankha (where the humans live.) It would be boring if it was anybody else, but Vlad finds himself battling his patron Goddess, Verra, and even finding out that---yeah, I won't spoil that. ;-)
He also has plenty of conflict in that he’s afraid of relying on any of his old friends because the Jhereg want him dead and he doesn’t want them caught helping him. Then, Kragar enters the picture anyway, when Vlad has no choice but to go see him. Kragar is highly entertaining.
Man, there’s so much going on in the plot that it’s hard to nail it down and in truth, I don’t want to. It’s so much better to hold this canvas in my head and remember how it felt when everything came together. That’s vintage Vlad for you.
Overall: I liked that the prologue was Vlad’s meal at Valabar’s, skipping over the meal itself. Then, each chapter started with a short excerpt from Vlad’s meal with Telnan, retelling it course by course. It tied in with each chapter in a delightful way. It was almost as good as his style of going over the climatic spell step-by-step at the beginning of each chapter in Taltos.
November 12, 2016
Vlad has gone back to his old territory in Adrilankha. Things aren't quite how he left them, or how he expected it to go. Cawti's having trouble keeping the Jhereg out of her area, since she won't run an organization like Vlad had. And she's not one to ask for help, even if Vlad would drop everything for her, forgetting the price on his own head, to do it. He's just going to have to take care of things himself, in his own way, like he always does . . .
Picking up only a few hours after Issola, this wastes no time dumping Vlad right back into trouble. I was amused at the extended metaphor in this book: cooking and murder. A perfect meal, compared and contrasted to those things needed to make a kill. And a several-course meal that sounds amazing, so have at least a snack on hand.
Vlad also has some of the best humor I've read so far in this book, and several quotes I like.
And of course Loish has several great conversations:
And several situations I refuse to spoil because they're just too funny walking in blind. (In particular, a certain character who has been joked about previously has something of a role.)
I liked the Dzur, and the conversation Vlad has with one about heroics. It was amusing to find a people dedicated to the side of good---as long as the right side is heavily outnumbered, or hated by everyone, or otherwise has almost zero chance of winning. In other words, Vlad should probably partner up with one for the future.
All in all this series hasn't flagged much, and I really like the direction it's going. I rate this book Highly Recommended.
See my reviews and more at https://offtheshelfreviews.wordpress....
Picking up only a few hours after Issola, this wastes no time dumping Vlad right back into trouble. I was amused at the extended metaphor in this book: cooking and murder. A perfect meal, compared and contrasted to those things needed to make a kill. And a several-course meal that sounds amazing, so have at least a snack on hand.
Vlad also has some of the best humor I've read so far in this book, and several quotes I like.
"It's easy to consider everyone a sucker who cares about things you don't care about. So who does that make the sucker?"
And of course Loish has several great conversations:
"Boss, you know you're a bully."
"Yeah."
"And worse, you enjoy it."
"Yeah."
"You've missed being a bully all these years."
"Yeah."
"I'm proud to know you."
And several situations I refuse to spoil because they're just too funny walking in blind. (In particular, a certain character who has been joked about previously has something of a role.)
I liked the Dzur, and the conversation Vlad has with one about heroics. It was amusing to find a people dedicated to the side of good---as long as the right side is heavily outnumbered, or hated by everyone, or otherwise has almost zero chance of winning. In other words, Vlad should probably partner up with one for the future.
All in all this series hasn't flagged much, and I really like the direction it's going. I rate this book Highly Recommended.
See my reviews and more at https://offtheshelfreviews.wordpress....
December 2, 2018
Ten books (plus, with the Paarfi series) and counting, Steven Brust continues to surprise with his Vlad Taltos series. As I've made my way through the books, I've continually praised Brust's style and wordplay, as well as the depth of his world-building in Vlad's Dragaera. Dzur does not disappoint.
Brust often uses a clever framing device to set up each chapter and add to the cohesiveness of the book. In one, a list of instructions to a laundry service starts each chapter, and in the chapter we see the circumstances which caused the stain or tear on Vlad's clothing. Another book begins each chapter with the recipe for a spell, at the end of the book the spell is cast. In Dzur, it is a meal at the fabled restaurant Valabars that provides the frame. Each chapter begins with a description of a course or wine and continues the conversation Vlad is having with the Dzurlord that gives the book its title.
In between these flashback scenes, the plot follows Vlad, on the run from his former employer (who wants him very, very dead) as he returns to his old stomping grounds. He is there to help his estranged wife, Cawti, save her neighborhood from infiltration by powerful sorceresses. The plot is a little beside the point, though, since the book begins literally seconds after the events in Issola. Vlad is struggling with the ramifications of those events: because he now wields a great weapon of power, his status among the most powerful Dragaerans has changed. He does not know what this means in the long run.
Because, yes, this is a long run. Ten books (plus), and we are no closer to definitive answers about Vlad and his world. Which is a great thing, when the books are this much fun to read.
Brust often uses a clever framing device to set up each chapter and add to the cohesiveness of the book. In one, a list of instructions to a laundry service starts each chapter, and in the chapter we see the circumstances which caused the stain or tear on Vlad's clothing. Another book begins each chapter with the recipe for a spell, at the end of the book the spell is cast. In Dzur, it is a meal at the fabled restaurant Valabars that provides the frame. Each chapter begins with a description of a course or wine and continues the conversation Vlad is having with the Dzurlord that gives the book its title.
In between these flashback scenes, the plot follows Vlad, on the run from his former employer (who wants him very, very dead) as he returns to his old stomping grounds. He is there to help his estranged wife, Cawti, save her neighborhood from infiltration by powerful sorceresses. The plot is a little beside the point, though, since the book begins literally seconds after the events in Issola. Vlad is struggling with the ramifications of those events: because he now wields a great weapon of power, his status among the most powerful Dragaerans has changed. He does not know what this means in the long run.
Because, yes, this is a long run. Ten books (plus), and we are no closer to definitive answers about Vlad and his world. Which is a great thing, when the books are this much fun to read.
October 22, 2021
This is the tenth book in the Vlad Taltos high fantasy series. I highly recommend the series, but would suggest beginning at the usual starting point, "Jhereg." The central character is the eponymous Vlad Taltos, a young human assassin in a society dominated by far longer-lived Dragaerans. Most of the books are narrated by Vlad in a dryly witty fashion that I find considerably entertaining. Most of the books have a fun tone, despite varying amounts of destruction and occasional disturbing scenes. Several of the books have quite intricate plots, and the series has satisfying overarching threads with intermittent revelations.
This book in particular pleased me very much. Indeed, it may well be my favorite to date. I liked most of the book considerably, though no more than I'd liked "Teckla" and "Phoenix." Spoiler warning....
4.5 out of 5 delicious stars.
About my reviews: I try to review every book I read, including those that I don't end up enjoying. The reviews are not scholarly, but just indicate my reaction as a reader, reading being my addiction. I am miserly with 5-star reviews; 4 stars means I liked a book very much; 3 stars means I liked it; 2 stars means I didn't like it (though often the 2-star books are very popular with other readers and/or are by authors whose other work I've loved).
This book in particular pleased me very much. Indeed, it may well be my favorite to date. I liked most of the book considerably, though no more than I'd liked "Teckla" and "Phoenix." Spoiler warning....
4.5 out of 5 delicious stars.
About my reviews: I try to review every book I read, including those that I don't end up enjoying. The reviews are not scholarly, but just indicate my reaction as a reader, reading being my addiction. I am miserly with 5-star reviews; 4 stars means I liked a book very much; 3 stars means I liked it; 2 stars means I didn't like it (though often the 2-star books are very popular with other readers and/or are by authors whose other work I've loved).
June 2, 2023
A masterpiece.
This simply is a masterpiece. I took a few days with this one because I was savouring it.
Unusually for these books, this follows straight on from the events in the previous. After all that cosmic powers guff and having been stuck in the wilderness for years, Vlad decides to go for a good meal. That, is the framing device for this novel and it is absolute genius.
You are as interested in Brust's descriptions of the food and the tastes as of that meal you are about the fantasy mafia shenanigans that Vlad's ex-wife draws him in to. The beats of the meal become the beats of the story.
Under all that is a disquisition about heroism and it's ramifications.
I swear on this re-read (and I have read this book a few times) I still didn't know how it was all going to come together. Not through forgetting but just the sheer craft of how this tale is put together.
This, is one of my favourite books ever and has made as positive an impression on me reading it now as it did when I first read it.
An easy and obvious recommend.
This simply is a masterpiece. I took a few days with this one because I was savouring it.
Unusually for these books, this follows straight on from the events in the previous. After all that cosmic powers guff and having been stuck in the wilderness for years, Vlad decides to go for a good meal. That, is the framing device for this novel and it is absolute genius.
You are as interested in Brust's descriptions of the food and the tastes as of that meal you are about the fantasy mafia shenanigans that Vlad's ex-wife draws him in to. The beats of the meal become the beats of the story.
Under all that is a disquisition about heroism and it's ramifications.
I swear on this re-read (and I have read this book a few times) I still didn't know how it was all going to come together. Not through forgetting but just the sheer craft of how this tale is put together.
This, is one of my favourite books ever and has made as positive an impression on me reading it now as it did when I first read it.
An easy and obvious recommend.
July 24, 2019
When his ex-wife get into trouble with the "Left Hand of the Jhereg", the female half of House Jhereg and powerful sorceresses, Vlad Taltos is drawn back into the city, to figure out what has gotten the Left Hand involved, when they're normally more mercenary in nature. This despite the fact that the regular main part of the House Jhereg still has a death sentence on Vlad, and that his ex hasn't asked for his help. Between these obstacles, not to mention the fact that a group of powerful magicians won't bat an eye at killing him for being in the way, Vlad has what for him is a regular day: avoiding being killed by multiple factions, while he unravels mysteries which only gets him into deeper trouble.
Another solid entry into the series, with a mix of action, trickery, and subtle and not-so-subtle plans. Vlad does his best to not draw his friends into danger of associating with a fugitive, but still can't shake the loyalty he's inspired in them over the years.
Another solid entry into the series, with a mix of action, trickery, and subtle and not-so-subtle plans. Vlad does his best to not draw his friends into danger of associating with a fugitive, but still can't shake the loyalty he's inspired in them over the years.
March 20, 2022
Another cracking entry onto the shelves of Vlad Taltos.
It was nice to be back in Adrilankha and felt more like the first book in the series, Jhereg. While Issola was epic battles with an impact of eons, Dzur has Vlad back pounding the pavements and working the problem as he used to.
It also shows a slightly different side to Vlad. Where most books find him thrown into a situation that has him scrabbling around to survive and bemoaning his fate, I felt that in Dzur, he was considerably more in control. He chose his course and worked the problem methodically to its conclusion. Given the number of times his friends comment on how changed he is, I'm certain it was intentional on Mr Brust's part but I'm not sure whether it's the time away from Adrilankha that's brought about this change in him or whether it's the effect of Lady Teldra at his side.
A very good book and I can't wait to see what's next.
It was nice to be back in Adrilankha and felt more like the first book in the series, Jhereg. While Issola was epic battles with an impact of eons, Dzur has Vlad back pounding the pavements and working the problem as he used to.
It also shows a slightly different side to Vlad. Where most books find him thrown into a situation that has him scrabbling around to survive and bemoaning his fate, I felt that in Dzur, he was considerably more in control. He chose his course and worked the problem methodically to its conclusion. Given the number of times his friends comment on how changed he is, I'm certain it was intentional on Mr Brust's part but I'm not sure whether it's the time away from Adrilankha that's brought about this change in him or whether it's the effect of Lady Teldra at his side.
A very good book and I can't wait to see what's next.
October 23, 2020
It's been a while since I read a Taltos story, but this definitely felt like returning to familiar ground. Vlad is back in Adrilankha, trying to sort out issues in one neighborhood, and experiencing (and detailing) his adventures through the lens of a fine meal.
Most of the cohorts are off-stage for the majority of the book - it's mainly Vlad and Loiosh and a line of cameo appearances. Vlad does makes use of his diplomatic tactics while he learns more about his new weapon.
I was a little disappointed with the climax of the story; it doesn't stand up to the level of the rest of the story. It's not bad, per se, but it didn't really pay out all of the build up. Maybe some of it is Brust treats his readers to read between the lines but didn't spell enough out for me here.
Still, other than that last chapter, it was all on form, and everything I enjoy about the series.
Most of the cohorts are off-stage for the majority of the book - it's mainly Vlad and Loiosh and a line of cameo appearances. Vlad does makes use of his diplomatic tactics while he learns more about his new weapon.
I was a little disappointed with the climax of the story; it doesn't stand up to the level of the rest of the story. It's not bad, per se, but it didn't really pay out all of the build up. Maybe some of it is Brust treats his readers to read between the lines but didn't spell enough out for me here.
Still, other than that last chapter, it was all on form, and everything I enjoy about the series.
February 9, 2019
Meh. This Vlad book was alright but not a whole lot happens. We do get to meet a Dzurlord who is interesting. I did like that we get to be back in the city and we get to see Kragar again. I really like Kragar and was glad that we got to see him again. The other major thing that I was hoping would happen does sort of happen and the book ends right at that moment. Other than those couple of things, the book was actually pretty boring. It was more interesting than seeing Vlad walk around small countryside towns and talk to children. Hopefully more will be resolved with Vlad and the Jhereg since it didn't feel like a whole lot was resolved in regards to Vlad. 3 out of 5 stars.
August 29, 2008
I'm noticing a trend in the books I'm reading. Actually, my father noticed it first when he described John Scalzi's Old Man's War as a decent book that turns into a dynamite book in the last 20 pages.
Steven Brust's Issola was the same for me, only with a more dynamic shift. I actually wasn't enjoying it much about halfway through, and if it had been my first exposure to Brust's writing, I would have put the book down and might not have picked it up ever again.
But Brust has earned some patience from me, so I stuck it out. And I loved the ending, which so redeemed the book that I went back and reread it again.
Dzur picks up right where Issola left off. And that's a bit of a problem, because Issola promised us...
Well, ok, I should stop here. There be spoilers ahead, folks, so if you want to come at the book fresh, stop now and go get it. If you're a fan of Vlad Taltos, you know you're going to read it anyway, right? Come back after you have for the critique, so you can tell me where I got it wrong. And if you're not a fan of Vlad Taltos, stop reading now, head to your nearest neighborhood bookstore, and pick up a copy of Jhereg. Yes, I know it was originally written in '83, but if your bookstore doesn't have a copy on their shelves, they can get one for you. Yes, it's that popular, and yes, it's that good. Vlad's name doesn't get tossed around as much as maybe Elric or Conan, but he's as much an icon of fantasy as either of those worthies. Seriously, get the book and read it.
Ok, so Dzur... One of the interesting things about Steven Brust is that you're often conscious of the fact that you're reading a book that was written by an author, but it's still ok. Most of the time,
writers work hard to disappear into the prose, so there's nothing between you and the story. With Brust, you often are faced with the conscious fact that there's a guy writing this stuff. And every now and then, he tries a neat little writerly trick, and it feels a bit like when your neighbor gets a new lawnmower with some special feature, and he's gotta try out that feature, even if he's only going to use it on a tiny portion of his yard. Sometimes, it's kinda cool, and you can share in the joy of watching your neighbor play with his new toy. Other times, it's just frustrating when it doesn't work as advertised, and everyone wonders if it wasn't built right or if your neighbor just doesn't know how to use it properly.
In this case, the neat toy is opening each chapter with comments about Vlad's dinner at Valabar and Sons, the assassin's favorite restaurant. Each little vignette just oozes decadence. Vlad loves food and Brust loves talking about how Vlad loves food. Food is to Vlad Taltos as pain and sex are to the anguisette Phedre no Delaunay.
It makes sense, of course. Vlad is back in his element. No more mucking about in the army or tromping about in rustic hinterlands. And the dzur who joins him for the food and supplies the pleasant conversation every good meal really needs is a neat character, one I hope we get to see more of. Honestly, it may be a writerly flourish, but the meal was my favorite parts of the book. And it mostly works. It partly depends on how you view a meal. Yes, a meal is like a story, and Brust does a wonderful job of explaining how the various courses of an expertly prepared meal has it's own rising action. Unfortunately, this relegates dessert to denouement, especially if there's no digestife course. And the big climax we've been looking forward to since the end of Issola happens in the chapter headed by the dessert. Even worse, it's not really the climax we were promised, but an anti-climax. The whole thing left me scratching my head.
Why did he need the Demon Goddess to send Telnan a dream to summon him to the confrontation? Couldn't he have, I dunno, sent a letter? Or had someone send a telepathic summons? Was there an issue there? Or is this just the proper way to summon a dzur hero? Or is it another example of Verra mucking about in Vlad's head?
Why does Vlad think the Left Hand will keep their promise? Yeah, ok, a pair of murders might make them think twice before they try anything, but I'm not convinced. They seemed to back down too easily. And we know Triesco isn't going to just let it go.
And in the end, things finish in an odd place. Vlad is still on the run. He's still not sure why the Demon Goddess is mucking about with his head. And if you take a step back and look at how the story is structured, his confrontation with Verra falls in the spot of the main course, which would indicate that it's the true climax. Which makes sense if you consider this book only a fraction of the story being told.
Which means that while Brust is still writing 300 page books, he's been bitten by the same massive-tome bug that's gotten to the rest of the fantasy lit field, and is telling 1,000+ page stories. The real story, I think, is what Verra has in mind for Vlad, and his relationship to the Demon Goddess. Dzur is something of an opening act to that tale, which may have its prologue in Taltos. As a stand-alone novel, Dzur starts great and ends weak. It'll probably be another two or three novels before we know if the entire story is up to the usual standards we expect from Brust. But since it is Brust, I'm willing to give him the benefit of the doubt.
Steven Brust's Issola was the same for me, only with a more dynamic shift. I actually wasn't enjoying it much about halfway through, and if it had been my first exposure to Brust's writing, I would have put the book down and might not have picked it up ever again.
But Brust has earned some patience from me, so I stuck it out. And I loved the ending, which so redeemed the book that I went back and reread it again.
Dzur picks up right where Issola left off. And that's a bit of a problem, because Issola promised us...
Well, ok, I should stop here. There be spoilers ahead, folks, so if you want to come at the book fresh, stop now and go get it. If you're a fan of Vlad Taltos, you know you're going to read it anyway, right? Come back after you have for the critique, so you can tell me where I got it wrong. And if you're not a fan of Vlad Taltos, stop reading now, head to your nearest neighborhood bookstore, and pick up a copy of Jhereg. Yes, I know it was originally written in '83, but if your bookstore doesn't have a copy on their shelves, they can get one for you. Yes, it's that popular, and yes, it's that good. Vlad's name doesn't get tossed around as much as maybe Elric or Conan, but he's as much an icon of fantasy as either of those worthies. Seriously, get the book and read it.
Ok, so Dzur... One of the interesting things about Steven Brust is that you're often conscious of the fact that you're reading a book that was written by an author, but it's still ok. Most of the time,
writers work hard to disappear into the prose, so there's nothing between you and the story. With Brust, you often are faced with the conscious fact that there's a guy writing this stuff. And every now and then, he tries a neat little writerly trick, and it feels a bit like when your neighbor gets a new lawnmower with some special feature, and he's gotta try out that feature, even if he's only going to use it on a tiny portion of his yard. Sometimes, it's kinda cool, and you can share in the joy of watching your neighbor play with his new toy. Other times, it's just frustrating when it doesn't work as advertised, and everyone wonders if it wasn't built right or if your neighbor just doesn't know how to use it properly.
In this case, the neat toy is opening each chapter with comments about Vlad's dinner at Valabar and Sons, the assassin's favorite restaurant. Each little vignette just oozes decadence. Vlad loves food and Brust loves talking about how Vlad loves food. Food is to Vlad Taltos as pain and sex are to the anguisette Phedre no Delaunay.
It makes sense, of course. Vlad is back in his element. No more mucking about in the army or tromping about in rustic hinterlands. And the dzur who joins him for the food and supplies the pleasant conversation every good meal really needs is a neat character, one I hope we get to see more of. Honestly, it may be a writerly flourish, but the meal was my favorite parts of the book. And it mostly works. It partly depends on how you view a meal. Yes, a meal is like a story, and Brust does a wonderful job of explaining how the various courses of an expertly prepared meal has it's own rising action. Unfortunately, this relegates dessert to denouement, especially if there's no digestife course. And the big climax we've been looking forward to since the end of Issola happens in the chapter headed by the dessert. Even worse, it's not really the climax we were promised, but an anti-climax. The whole thing left me scratching my head.
Why did he need the Demon Goddess to send Telnan a dream to summon him to the confrontation? Couldn't he have, I dunno, sent a letter? Or had someone send a telepathic summons? Was there an issue there? Or is this just the proper way to summon a dzur hero? Or is it another example of Verra mucking about in Vlad's head?
Why does Vlad think the Left Hand will keep their promise? Yeah, ok, a pair of murders might make them think twice before they try anything, but I'm not convinced. They seemed to back down too easily. And we know Triesco isn't going to just let it go.
And in the end, things finish in an odd place. Vlad is still on the run. He's still not sure why the Demon Goddess is mucking about with his head. And if you take a step back and look at how the story is structured, his confrontation with Verra falls in the spot of the main course, which would indicate that it's the true climax. Which makes sense if you consider this book only a fraction of the story being told.
Which means that while Brust is still writing 300 page books, he's been bitten by the same massive-tome bug that's gotten to the rest of the fantasy lit field, and is telling 1,000+ page stories. The real story, I think, is what Verra has in mind for Vlad, and his relationship to the Demon Goddess. Dzur is something of an opening act to that tale, which may have its prologue in Taltos. As a stand-alone novel, Dzur starts great and ends weak. It'll probably be another two or three novels before we know if the entire story is up to the usual standards we expect from Brust. But since it is Brust, I'm willing to give him the benefit of the doubt.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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