I really enjoyed the beginning of this new series by Holly Lisle - and I really envy her ability to come up with fresh new ideas for her fantasy worlds.

The series starts out in the 'real' world, or in a world much like our own, but then moves into other dimensions where someone might suddenly have godlike powers, or alternately, become like a spirit, unable to affect reality. Then there are the Sentinels... would they hesitate to do anything that they feel is necessary to further their cause?

There are a lot of reprecussions to magic use in this book, illustrating how the actions of even a single person, layered with intent, can have far reaching consequences. Well, I can't say more than that without giving away the story, but this is a definite keeper. I picked it up and didn't put it back down until I hit the back cover.

Memory of Fire is nothing short of a masterful saga. For those who love cross-dimensional fantasy, Lisle's work can be wonderfully satisfying and does successfully allow one to experience a thorough suspension of disbelief.

Since I do live in the heart of one of the story's settings, I read with interest the many references to the Laurinburg, Gibson, and Rockingham areas of south central North Carolina. Having met the author's parents while they resided in Laurinburg, I began reading Holly Lisle as a way to scratch a curiosity itch. I found a tremendous treasure within the works of Holly Lisle. And, like fine wine, this particular author seems to greatly improve with age.

Memory of Fire is the story of two women: Lauren Dane and Molly McColl. Both become enmeshed within the tangled web first spun by parents that neither woman really knew. Part of that webbing includes another world; one on which humans can create and produce magic. Unfortunately, each spell carries a sinister equation: for every spell cast there is an equal and opposing effect on Earth. Each woman learns that old Spiderman axiom-with great power comes great responsibility. Quite frankly, to reveal more would be criminal, for the book's charm lies within its plot's twists and turns.

As Lisle breathes life into wonderful characters and plot, Memory of Fire becomes a procrastinator's worst nightmare-it simply is NOT a book to be put down until every page is turned. Fortunately, Memory of Fire is the first installment of a larger work called The World Gates; there will be more to come.

Books that I plan to read repeatedly are usually bought in the hardback format; however, Memory of Fire is available only in paperback. I find that to be the book's only major flaw.

Memory of Fire is the first novel in the World Gates series. The Sentinels are a secret organization who monitor and, to some extent, control traffic between universes. They have been around a long time and have infiltrated the power structure. They have some ability to use magic. They are the Conspiracy that people have dreamed and ranted about.

The Sentinel's circle in Cat Creek, North Carolina, is having problems. First a blip shows on the instruments and later gates start dropping and have to be reset. The last incident was met with a full scale excursion into Oria, but no clues were found ... publicly. The circle starts monitoring all their gates for more events and tries to triangulate from the available data.

The first event was Molly McColl being kidnapped and taken through a World Gate to Oria. There she is welcomed as the Vodi, a being who is powerful in magic. However, she is being kept in a copper covered room that grounds her magic. Seolar, Master of Copper House, has arranged for her kidnapping in order to protect his people from the ravages of other magic users and Molly eventually begins to like him more than a little.

The second event was Lauren Hotchkiss Dane opening the old Hotchkiss gate. Lauren has returned to Cat Creek after the death of her husband, Brian. She discovered that her family home was on the market and used the SGLI payment to buy it and now she has brought her son Jake to the old home place to live. Someone has covered the large wall mirror in the living room with black paint and she spends an afternoon scaping it clear. When she looks in the mirror, she sees a hint of green and it somehow attracts her. Later, after Jake is in bed, she discovers that she can put her hand through the mirror without ill effects. She waits until Jake awakes and then goes through the mirror to Oria.

Eric MacAvery is the town sheriff as well as a Sentinel and is in the center of the whole mess. He knows that Molly has disappeared, but not how or why. He is a childhood friend of Lauren, but she keeps her secrets from him ... for a while. He knows that someone in his circle is a traitor, but not who or why. On top of all this, someone or something has caused a level five rebound breakthrough, which could cause 3 billion deaths worldwide.

This novel adds new life to an old SF plot, creating a hierarchial multiverse where energy flows down and spirituality flows up and introduces a threat which will destoy the inhabitants of all the universes if something is not done soon. Lauren's parents, who were long ago expelled from the Sentinels, have hidden notes describing some forbidden experiments that may be the only hope for the survival of the people in countless universes.

This novel is full of plot twists and turns, but focuses mostly on the interpersonal relationships. One cannot help liking Molly, Lauren, Jake, Eric, and even, reluctantly, Seolar.

Recommended for Lisle fans and anyone who enjoys a new approach to the secret masters of the universe plot.

"Mind of the Magic" starts out quickly with a small conflict, then another, and again another, leading us toward the central story. Then things slow, or seem to, but one of those early bits of conflict quietly holds in place. It keeps reminding us that there's more happening under the surface, that something bigger is lurking, waiting for Faia to become complacent.

As in the previous "Arhel" books, Holly's style is very clean. She never allows the story to lose focus. We learn what we need to about the characters and the world, but never to the point where gaining this knowledge pulls us from the meat of the story.

I became a zombie reading "Mind of the Magic." In fact, in 4 days I read this and "Fire in the Mist," finishing them in two sittings each.

For me, the real gem of this story is the conflict between the Servants and Faia's party. Such horrid, repulsive men, hiding their thieving and murdering behind a mask of Holy self-righteousness. This is followed closely by Faia's visions from within the emeshest, seeing the futility of what she'd done.

As the third book in the Arhel trilogy, I was left still wanting more--more adventures, more Faia! I had read the previous books, and this was on par with them: interesting plot-twists and magic system and engaging characters.

If you haven't yet, I suggest finding all books in the trilogy and sitting back to enjoy a wonderful read!

Faia Rissedotte returns in this third in the series by Holly Lisle. Again disdaining all the established rules, fate delivers her into great trouble. Intelligence and ability help her out. Another winner and a great read. I didn't want to put it down. Only exhaustion and the need to support my family (work) made me. If you like fantasy with twists this ones for you.

This is an extraordinary book all of those who have read Lackey's Valdemar series would love this book(I know I did). It's got everything!!!! Magic, Elves(and wow on those Elves)(tray cool!!) And enough excitement and danger to keep you reading!!!!

I read all and own most of Lackey's novels, including collaborations. I particulary like her urban fantasies because they grapple fearlessly--and realistically--with real-life issues. In When the Bough Breaks, the authors portray multiple personality disorder very truly, yet merge it seamlessly with the other aspects of the story. Don't get me wrong! This is not some psychological narrative, but another excellent combination of fantasy and modern life from master storytellers. I highly recommend it!

This is a brilliant book. It manages to deal with a very topical issue, without being too preachy. I particularly liked the ending where the villian gets his just desserts ~ if only such options were possible in real life!!

This type of "fantasy" isn't exactly the kind that I read, but I enjoyed this book anyway for the imaginative storyline and characters. Sympathy for the Devil explores what could happen if God let the fallen souls have a chance to repent and change their ways so that they can be accepted into Heaven. Dayne Kuttner, an ICU nurse, begs God to let the fallen have another chance, and so He grants her wish and releases the evil souls into North Carolina.

The story shows that when you find something that is worth everything, you can redeem yourself and become a better person than you ever imagined.

When I read this book, it was quite apparent that Holly Lisle's writing style and insight into our present day society was unique and superb. I laughed at her views of the computer in not only our world, but in Hell (which is to say a little of Hell will be ever present though out the rest of our lives.) This book also shows in the difficulties of and choices we must make on the basis of our feelings. I think that Holly Lisle is one of today's greatest writers, and all of her books have brought the delight of fantasy into my small literary collection. Any person, who is a fan of fantasy and humor, would do well to read this novel, or any of her other fantastic books.

This is a deceptively simple book; the basic story can be set up in a few sentences: in agony over her life as a nurse, the death of her husband and theological platitudes, Dayne Kuttner tempts God to give the damned of Hell a second chance--and he does, though not quite in the way she expected. What follows is an oftentimes funny helter-skelter ride of escaped demons and other assorted damned-souls loose in North Carolina. Of course, Lucifer (Puissant Lord of Evil, Utmost Originator of All Things Foul, Master of the Netherworlds, Purveyor of Anguish) sees the opportunity and grabs it: he sends his lieutenant Agonostis into the mess to tempt more mortals to their doom--and to seize Dayne herself for Hell.

Lisle's rewritten the Bible and Christianity here. Don't expect every event or presumption of the book to follow rigorous doctrine. Instead, look for the mass of real-life medical and theological questions bubbling under the surface. She covers issues like euthanasia and the responsibility of medical practitioners to their (dying and nearly-dead) patients. But the philosophical meat is the theology: how can Heaven and Hell co-exist? Is this even morally possible if God is wholly good? What sends a person to Hell? Does anyone ever deserve to be there? And what exactly _are_ good and evil? How close together can they get?

I'm making the book sound heavy, but on the surface you can view it as a light-hearted comedy. This level was enjoyable on the first read, but I found myself returning later to the questions couched between the lines and the allegory they create. If you're just after a good, fun read, go for it; but if you want more, you'll definitely find it. I haven't read anything quite like it before or since; I even created a new personal category for it, which is the title of this review.

I was really disappointed in this book after reading Diplomacy of Wolves. I still like the world, many of the concepts, and the basics of the plot. However, I'm still finding it very difficult to like any of the characters beyond Ian and Kait's uncle. Kait herself is no more likeable than before, and as for Danya . . . Are we supposed to excuse her actions because of the way she's been hurt, or are we supposed to think her evil anyway because she was one of the Galweigh Wolves?
The Kait and Ry storyline, meant to be so significant for both characters, was at first contrived (She has to share his cabin because he came to rescue her? Would we like to create some artificial sexual tension here?) and then nowhere near as deep or moving as it should have been. Another problem I had with the writing was that there weren't many clues as to how much time had passed, and it sometimes seemed as if the story was missing big chunks. And the resemblance between Solander and a certain religion in our own world did annoy me somewhat.
I just found that the whole story was too easy, somehow. The Dragons waltz in and transform things with their magic, and then lapse into a life of self-indulgence. It seemed almost embarrassingly easy for Kait and Ry to work their banishment charm tricks on them. And yes, Vengeance of Dragons finishes on a hell of a cliffhanger - but I'm pretty sure I already know what the ultimate ending will be, Luercas or no Luercas.
My hope is that this book is the weak point in the trilogy, and that Courage of Falcons will be as good as Diplomacy of Wolves, if not better. I am still interested enough to want to find out what happens.

A good trilogy with very interesting mix of characters. However, characters talk too much to their (other)-selves, and that gets annoying after 500 pages. And, that (thing) happened to reborn is just plain stupid. Oh well... a good read non-the-less if you could withstand some disappointments in the storyline.

About two years ago I picked up a book entitled 'Diplomacy of Wolves',the first book in 'The Secret Texts' trilogy. I was immediately drawn into the world Holly Lisle has created. In 'Vengeance of Dragons' Lisle continues the story of Kait Galiweigh and her quest for 'The Mirror of Souls'. The story picks right up where 'Diplomacy of Wolves' left off and the pace never slows. The best part of Ms. Lisle's work in 'The Secret Texts' trilogy is that she has balanced an interesting mix of adventure, romance, political intrigue, and some incredible magic. Each character comes vividly to life and you can't help but feel a part of their world. If you are a fan of fantasy you would be cheating yourself by not reading this trilogy so check it out and be drawn in. The third book 'Courage of Falcons' is scheduled for and October 2000 release. I eagerly look forward to it.

Being personally acquainted with Ted Nolan, the co-author of "Hell On High" prompted me to purchase this book. Expecting to read a rather bizarre fantasy purely for entertainment, I found a book intertwined with fantasy and irony. Taken as purely entertaining, the story stands alone as an interesting tale. However, one should look beyond pure entertainment. The religious and morale issues and lessons learned are passed to the reader in a sometimes humorous, occasionally serious and yet subtle manner. Upon completion of this book, the reader will undoubtedly have a greater sense of the strength of forces beyond our comprehension as mortal human beings. At the same time, a feeling of the ultimate goodness of the human spirit is both encouraging and enlightening. Holly and Ted have managed to create a blend of pure entertainment with a powerful message for those readers fortunate enough to find this book on their bookshelves.

I found this book to be very imaginative and entertaining. The book was extremely funny to read. After reading the book I had my husband read it. He enjoyed it as much as I did. I wish this author duo would come out with another book. The concept of Hell being released in Raleigh, North Carolina makes me thankful I live in Virginia. A must read!!!!

In this second book of The World Gates series, Lisle is thematically more ambitious but also more humane than in the first book. The powerful sisters Lauren and Molly are still struggling to save Earth and the rest of the worldchain and discover what their parents planned for them, but they have even tougher challenges to face. Molly saved the life of her sister's toddler Jake at a terrible cost: her soul. A magic necklace resurrects her each time she dies, but she is never the same person when she returns. Should she reject immortality, give up the fight, and seek oblivion? She's not the only one having hard times. Lauren follows Jake to the afterlife, only to be told that she can't take Molly's soul and her dead husband back with her. Lisle doesn't take the pretty, easy way out. By the end of the book, Lauren and Molly have found some answers, but they don't come through their adventures unscathed, and Lisle leaves a lot hanging for the next novel in the series. Parts of the The Wreck of Heaven are gut-wrenching, and it is commendable that Lisle manages to create such an admirable balance of theme and characterization while still moving the plot forward. I look forward to the next installment.

The Wreck of Heaven is the second novel in the World Gates series, following Memory of Fire. In the previous volume, Molly McColl has died to revive her nephew Jake, her half-sister Lauren Hotchkiss Dane has killed a rron as well as the traitorous Sentinels in Oria, and Sheriff Eric MacAvery and his deputy Pete Stark have killed the Sentinel traitors in Cat Creek. Lauren and Jake are back in Cat Creek, having attended Molly's funeral, and are now trying to recover from all the trauma. Pete and Lauren have been inducted by the survivors into the Cat Creek Sentinel's circle.

In this novel, Jake refuses to go near the big mirror in their hallway and is even unhappy entering the kitchen. He has begun to talk again, but he is much too passive. She has just returned from the store and Pete has dropped by, so Lauren asks him to sit on the stairs with Jake as she puts up the groceries. Pete teases Jake about a story that he had once liked, but now scares him. Pete insists the scary pumpkin is saying that he has a cookie in his tummy and Jake knows that it is really saying "Boo, Boo". They both get the giggles and Jake even lets Pete carry him into the kitchen without protest.

Then Lauren discovers a messenger from Oria in her kitchen and quickly maneuvers Pete out of the house. The messenger states that Molly has returned from the dead through the powers of the Vodi necklace. Lauren quickly makes arrangements to be gone for a while and takes Jake with her to Oria. She finds Molly at Copper House and they start preparing for their roles as planned by their parents. However, Jake is more precocious than expected and manages to open a link leading to his deceased father in the afterlife.

Pete finds a note from Lauren on his kitchen table and decides that she probably used a small gate to deliver it. Although she writes that she is taking Jake to visit his grandparents, Pete notices that she has left her primary keyring with him and, after visiting the house, finds that the car is parked in a shed and that nothing much is missing. He reckons that foul play is unlikely, given the evidence, and that Lauren probably has been called back to Oria. To cover for her, he passes on the note to the other Sentinels and adds a few embellishments.

This novel extends the storyline to explain the difference between the old gods and the dark gods as well as the nature of the disasters that have destroyed worldline after worldline. We also learn something more about the rron and their motivation.

The romance between Molly and Seolar develops and even continues after her death and resurrection, but not without some hard moments. Seolar knows that his duty to the Veyar is primary in his life, but now he begins to realize that, without Molly, his life will not have any joy or satisfaction.

This novel is full of action and excitement. Dangers arise and are handled somehow. Once again, the story focuses on the interpersonal relationships between Molly and Seolar as well as between Lauren and Pete, but not as much so as the previous novel.

One interesting scene is the confrontation between Lauren and the Administrator in the Afterlife. Maybe a bit of catharsis for the author after a bad encounter with bureaucracy. Probably a good thing that she didn't write about Hell.

Recommended for Lisle fans and anyone who else enjoys a new approach to the salvation of the universe plot.

There is some very fine world building that has gone into DIPLOMACY OF WOLVES; the world, its history, and the cultures which inhabit it, are all well drawn, with many clever touches.

The plot, unfortunately, is only kept moving by the characters making the most idiotic decisions possible. Everyone jumps to the most outrageous conclusions about other characters' actions and fates, never thinking about alternate possibilities. No one questions the information given to them by mysterious supernatural entities. The plot moves quickly, but at only by sacrificing any credibility or sympathy the characters might have.

I managed to read all of DIPLOMACY OF WOLVES, but the last several chapters were a slog towards the painfully obvious conclusion (which nevertheless is a surprise to the characters). I have no desire to read any further in the series.

On the planet Matrin, four centuries of bitter fighting between the houses of Dokteerak and Galweigh appear to be finally over with the pending wedding of an individual from each side. While attending the nuptials, Kait Galweigh overhears a treacherous plan that will eradicate her family. In spite of her efforts to save her kin, the plan works, leaving the Galweighs decimated. Kait manages to escape.

Heeding a voice telepathically talking inside her head, Kait travels to a remote area of the planet, seeking the mystical Mirror of Souls, which has awakened after a millennium. On her trek, Kait is followed by an unknown enemy, who plan to add her death to their body count. As Kait struggles to survive, she learns that she has the shape-shifting ability of the detested and feared werewolf. With the help of one of her kind, Kait battles for her life as the beginning of a war of magic threatens to destroy her home planet.

DIPLOMACY OF WOLVES is a great opening gamut to Holly Lisle's "Secret texts" trilogy. The story line brilliantly mixes politics, betrayal, and magic into a coherent, fun to read speculative fiction novel. Matrin feels like a real planet and the magical aspects come across as if they are a form of physics. However, what makes Ms. Lisle's novel appear to be the tale that takes her to the top of the genre (if justice prevails) is Kait, an enchanting, complex, and genuine person, who will steal the souls of readers.

Harriet Klausner 11/8/98

I thought that this book was great. It had everything that a person could hope for in a fantasy. I always find myself looking for a book to keep me reading. I found this one and I couldn't put it down. Kait is such a believable character-I felt like I was sharing her adventures, wishing that I was Karnee(can change into a wolf). I really recammend this, and the rest of the books in this series. You will not regret it.