The House of Storms

Publishers Weekly

In MacLeod's brilliant The Light Ages (2003), the discovery of a substance called aether revolutionized technology, ushering in a Victorian age radically different from our own. Now, a century later, the Age of Light has come to an end in this more tightly plotted sequel. Alice Meynell, Greatgrandmistress of the Guild of Telegraphers, is willing to commit murder to establish her own power and assure the future of her tubercular son, Ralph. To save his life, she makes a deal with the Chosen, magical beings so warped by aether that they can no longer live in human society. As Ralph's health improves, however, he falls in love with Marion Price, a servant girl who eventually bears his child. Alice, acting in what she believes is Ralph's best interests, forces them to separate, secretly sending the baby to live with the Chosen. Years pass, civil war breaks out, and Alice, Ralph and Marion pursue their varied destinies. Full of detailed descriptions of landscapes and complex human feelings, this rich, leisurely novel bears some similarities to the more frenetic fiction of China Mieville, though the author's affinity to A.S. Byatt is even stronger. This is a major work by a master writing at the top of his form. Agent, Susan Protter. (May 3) Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.

Library Journal

The Age of Light has lasted 99 years, and Alice Meynell, Greatgrandmistress of the Telegraphers' Guild, hopes that her son Ralph will continue in her footsteps if she can cure him of the consumption that ravages his body. To save his life, she relocates to western England and bargains with the changelings of nearby Einfell. Once whole, Ralph falls in love with Marion Price, a shore girl who shares his interest in discovering the unifying principle of life. The couple hopes to make a life together, but Alice has other plans that will change the course of history. This sequel to The Light Ages continues the saga of an alternate Victorian Earth in which industry and subtle magic join forces to create a society in which powerful guilds control the destiny of the lower classes. MacLeod's ability to tell a tale that blends history-in-the-making with the stories of the men and women who make that history renders this chronicle of love, war, and human aspirations a strong addition to any library's fantasy collection. Highly recommended. Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.