From Publishers Weekly
In this bold first of a new fantasy series from Canadian Patton (The Golden Sword, etc.), six gods, who originated from spirits that mated with humans and who can take corporeal form at will, rule the magical city of Anavatan, which sits next to the brilliant silver lake of Gol-Beyaz. During the chaotic rite known as Havoc's Dance, two small boys, Brax and Spar, are drawn to Estavia, the powerful red-eyed god of battle. Opposing them is another boy, Graize, who sides with the still-growing Incasa, the god of prophecy. Court intrigues enrich the story, as do many made-up words that lend color but whose meanings readers must figure out in context. The smashing climax neatly sets up events for volume two.
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From Booklist
Anavatan's six gods emerged in time past remembering from the heart of Gol-Beyaz, the Silver Lake. They protect the city and surroundings with a magical wall that excludes raiders and the spirits of the plains that are drawn to Gol-Beyaz. It is the time called Havo's Dance--three nights of chaos, great winds, and powerful storms. Best to find shelter before sunset. Seeking cover, two orphaned thieves, Spar and his protective companion, Brax, are set upon by rivals Graize and Drove. Plains spirits who have breached the wall attack all four, immediately killing Drove. Brax calls on the goddess of battle, Estavia, promising his service and his life, and she appears, saving the three survivors and naming Brax her newest champion. Meanwhile, the god of chance examines the possibilities the night has birthed, curtailing some and allowing others. Very soon, Spar and Graize will change their world unimaginably. One will be a prophet, one a charismatic madman. The best aspect of this explosive series opener is Patton's take on relations between gods and men.
Paula LuedtkeCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
