Atrix Wolfe, the greatest known mage in the world, released his magic 20 years ago and the world, both real and fey, is still paying for that one terrible night when he ignored the rules that guide mages and their power. A queen has lost her consort and daughter, an evil has been released, and a princeling mage has a book once hidden. Past and present, the real and the magical, and all these elements come together as the characters try to save and find the balance once again in their world.
Impression: I still think Ombria in Shadow is the best I've read from McKillip, but this would have to be my second favorite so far. Unlike Song of the Basilisk, the writing is closer to the richness and depth of Ombria and the same layered writing that I originally fell in love with. I do have to say I liked the ending of this one better than Ombria's though: the Ombria ending requires that you reread it to figure out what happened, maybe even make a judgment without being sure; this one was clear, concise, and very touching.
I like how McKillip ties the past and present together in her novels, and presents a view of the magic and real that is both separate and inclussive. Those elements are more clearly presented in Atrix Wolfe than the other novels I've read. It looks like the depth of language was not something she developed over time though. Atrix Wolfe was published before Song but Ombria was published after. I wonder why she changed for Song? Anyway, I still prefer the richer language. :)
