Book Review: Black Powder War

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Black Powder War     Amazon US PB Amazon Canada PB
Naomi Novik
Class/Genre:   Fantasy   Military   Dragons   Historical
Series: Temeraire # 3
Del Rey, Jun 2006, $7.50

His Majesty’ Aerial Corps Captain Will Laurence and his partner HIS MAJESTY’S DRAGON Temeraire the dragon relax after their Chinese escapades (see THRONE OF JADE). However, their R&R is cut short, when an envoy informs the daring duo of their assignment. They must travel to Istanbul to pick up three dragon eggs recently purchased from the Ottomans and bring them safely home before they hatch.

Will hires Tharkay, a half-breed guide who has parents in both nations, and decides the land route is best. However, the trek is hazardous from natural causes, a falling out between the two nations, and mostly because of the raging Chinese dragon Lien, who vows vengeance on Laurence and Temeraire for the death of her human mate. All this is happening while the clock is running out and a betrayal makes it seemingly impossible to accomplish the mission.

The latest Laurence-Temeraire adventure is once again a fabulous historical fantasy. The story line is filled with action and adventure while the secondary players add depth either to the escapades to the period. However, as always the tale is owned by the lead duo who both grows into better tolerant beings due to their relationship. Fans will enjoy the BLACK POWDER WAR.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner