The Ring of Five Dragons

If you are looking for the next great fantasy series to read, you've just found it. Eric Van Lustbader once again works his magic to bring readers a fantastic tale with elements of both science fiction and fantasy.

I have been a fan of Lustbader's writing since my uncle first introduced me to The Ninja and Jian. As those titles might tip you off, those novels are influenced by Asian martial arts and culture. This new series is markedly different, though the author's wonderfully lavish descriptions of Kundalan art and artifacts do bear some resemblance to Asian art.

At the heart of the story is the conflict between two different cultures. The V'ornn are star nomads who invade and conquer planets with their technological savvy. The Kundalan, their latest victims, are much more earthy; they practice magic (or did, until the V'orrn came) and worship the goddess Miina.

Within both sides are factions and intrigue that will keep the reader guessing. The only thing that will save them (both of them, perhaps) is the Dar Sala-at, a hero prophesied by the Kundalan.

Unlikely alliances play out between slaves and master, between the oppressed and the opressors, and even between twins as unlike as can be. This is a novel (and a series) that will keep you on your toes. The release date is May 21, 2001.

I recommend this book primarily for older teens and adults. If you enjoyed Anne McCaffrey's Freedom series, you will also enjoy this one. Find out more by checking out my interview with the Eric Van Lustbader, reading the publisher's details on the book, or reading an excerpt from the first chapter.