The Lions of Al-Rassan by Guy Gavriel Kay

(On this point I have to say that a long e-mail discussion with my friend Susan brought me to reconsider and give Fionavar a second chance, because I thought that if a book can elicit such an eloquent and passionate defense from a person whose judgment I trust, I can’t turn a blind eye on it). Kay’s writing has led me to believe that there’s only a 50:50 chance I might like one of his books: I enjoyed Tigana, but when I briefly attempted to read the first volume of the Fionavar Tapestry I found it impossible to accept its premises or to get a real feel for the characters. Sharing the interwoven fate of these two men from different worlds - and increasingly torn in her feelings - is Jehane, the beautiful, accomplished court physician, whose own skills play an increasing role as Al-Rassan is swept to the brink of holy war, and beyond.My (admittedly limited) experience with G.G.

In the exquisite lakeside city of Ragosa, Rodrigo Belmonte and Ammar ibn Kharian meet and serve - for a time - the same master. Rodrigo leads his mercenary company south, to the dangerous lands of Al-Rassan. Meanwhile, in the north, the Jaddite’s most celebrated - and feared - military leader, Rodrigo Belmonte, is driven into exile in the wake of events following the death of the king he loved. Almalik is aided by his friend and advisor, the notorious Ammar ibn Khairan - poet, diplomat, soldier - until a summer afternoon of savage brutality changes their relationship forever. King Almalik of Cartada is on the ascendancy, adding city after city to his realm, even though Cartada is threatened by forces both within and without. The Asharies empire has splintered into decadent city-states lead by warring petty kinds. But over centuries, seduced by the sensuous pleasures of their new land, that stern piety has eroded.

The ruling Asharites have come from the desert sands, worshipping the stars, their warrior blood fierce and pure. Award-wining author Guy Gavriel’s sixth novel, hauntingly evocative of medieval Spain, is both a brilliant adventure and a moving story of love, divided loyalties, and what happens to men and women when hardening beliefs begin to remake - or destroy - a world.

The Lions of Al-Rassan by Guy Gavriel Kay