Acacia--Book One: The War with the Mein

by: David Anthony Durham

Published by: Doubleday

Reviewed by Vanessa Lee

For over twenty generations, Acacians have ruled the Known World, demanding tribute from the subject nations of their empire. On the idyllic island capitol, the emperor's four children are raised with love and caring...and without any knowledge of the brutal policies that enable the empire to maintain its peaceful rule.

When the emperor is killed by an assassin of the Mein, who are a conquered people in the frozen far north of the Known World, the emperor's children are scattered to fulfill destinies for which they are ill prepared. As the new order takes over, the world changes around them and they grow up in ways that neither they nor their father could have ever imagined.

They never forget the event that ripped them from their comfortable life, shattered their illusions, and tore their family apart. As they come into their own, they harbor the resolve to avenge their father's death and restore what they believe to be the proper order of the Known World. Meanwhile, the conquering Mein never forget them, and continually search for the children who could rally the conquered peoples.

At times the story drags on, and the beginning is especially slow, but it is a well-told story. And the reader must keep in mind that it is setting the scene for two more proposed books in a series. This book is not one to be picked up lightly, but it is worth the energy that you will put into it.

Durham's background in military fiction shows in several places. For example, battle scenes are especially detailed, though easy to follow, and the tone is often dry even when wonders are described. This adds an interesting element, for the book is not all swords and magic, but real politics are involved. It is not a tale of good and evil, but a tale of warring nations in a fantastical realm. Both are right... and both are wrong. It's a dynamic not often seen in epic fantasy, and it's a refreshing change.

Armchair Interviews says: Acacia is something to be savored--an interesting, intelligent, and powerful new voice in fantasy.

Author's Web site: http://www.DavidAnthonyDurham.com