The Death of Chaos by L.E. Modesitt, Jr.

This is the sequel to The Magic of Recluse*. It completes the story of Lerris and his family. There is also a little bit more philosophy in this one, which I thought was interesting. The author talks about the nature of fairness, honesty, evil all sorts of things. This author doesn't draw a lot of hard and fast conclusions to these philosophical musings either, the characters implies understandings but doesn't usually state them outright. Leaving the reader to draw their own (if guided) conclusions. I didn't like this the first time I read some of the Recluse novels, it was too much work lol but I appreciate it more now :) But this book is not something I would read if I just wanted something fun and easy.

Rating: 4 stars

Recommendations: The rest of the Recluse Saga.

629 pages took me about 4 or 5 hours. :)

The Magic of Recluse by L.E. Modesitt, Jr.

I read this years ago and realized that I missed a lot of things. So here I am re-reading it, I really enjoyed this book. The concept of magic in this series is interesting. The characters had some depth. The plot was fun. This book makes you think more than your average fantasy, I think. The author likes to imply things, and not outright say them, it makes for a more challenging read but enjoyable. I like that the author assumes that the reader is intelligent enough so everything doesn't have to be spelled out. I will definitely read more in this series.

Rating: 4 stars

Recommendations: So apparently the author says that the books should be read in the published order. But, if you want to follow this character, Lerris, the next book is Death of Chaos. This book apparently takes place very late in the chronology of Recluse, but it doesn't seem to matter too much. I just get attached to a character and want to stay with them.

501 pages took me about 4 hours I think (I was on vacation so I wasn't really paying attention!)