The Silver Sun by Nancy SpringerMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is the second volume of a series written some decades ago, when all the familiar tropes of fantasy were young ... and it reads as such, with poetic, formal language and a deep authenticity in subject that makes it obvious why these elements became cliche in the years that followed. It is still difficult, as a modern reader, to separate one's self from that familiarity, but it is still possible to recognize that freshness.
The tone of the language, combined with the casual use of floating omniscience - what modern writers would condemn as head-hopping - makes it difficult to connect with the characters. Whereas in the first book, it comes off as mythic and appropriate, this sequel doesn't convey the same feeling. Maybe it's because this is a longer book; maybe it is because many of the adventures are more personal; maybe it is because gods and destiny are less clearly written on Hal from the start.
Whatever the case, this is still an enjoyable book, but one that more clearly shows its age.
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