Under Heaven
Written by Guy Gavriel Kay
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Average Score:
91(11)
In his latest innovative novel, the award-winning author evokes the dazzling Tang Dynasty of 8th-century China in a story of honor and power.
Inspired by the glory and power of Tang dynasty China, Guy Gavriel Kay has created a masterpiece.
It begins simply. Shen Tai, son of an illustrious general serving the Emperor of Kitai, has spent two years honoring the memory of his late father by burying the bones of the dead from both armies at the site of one of his father's last great battles. In recognition of his labors and his filial piety, an unlikely source has sent him a dangerous gift: 250 Sardian horses.
You give a man one of the famed Sardian horses to reward him greatly. You give him four or five to exalt him above his fellows, propel him towards rank, and earn him jealousy, possibly mortal jealousy. Two hundred and fifty is an unthinkable gift, a gift to overwhelm an emperor.
Wisely, the gift comes with the stipulation that Tai must claim the horses in person. Otherwise he would probably be dead already...
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Book Details
Fantasy
Hardcover,
592 Pages
Published
by Roc Hardcover on April 27, 2010
First Published by Penguin Canada in 2010
ISBN-10 0451463307
ISBN-13 978-0451463302
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Reviews
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Library Journal
| Jackie Cassada
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Review Rating: 100
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Meticulously researched yet seamlessly envisioned, the characters and culture present a timeless tale of filial piety and personal integrity. (Starred Review)
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Pat`s Fantasy Hotlist
| Patrick
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Review Rating: 100
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...I'm woefully aware that this pathetic review can never do justice to just how grandiose Under Heaven truly is. Simply put, this is one of the very best novels I have ever read.
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Publishers Weekly
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Review Rating: 100
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...the complex intrigues of poets, prostitutes, ministers, and soldiers evolve into a fascinating, sometimes bloody, and entirely believable tale. (Starred Review)
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SF Reviews
| Thomas M. Wagner
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Review Rating: 100
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I could go on about specific memorable characters, powerful scenes in which Kay gets more suspense from people in a room talking than many writers manage to squeeze out of full-blown battles.
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The Wertzone
| Adam Whitehead
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Review Rating: 100
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...a superb book from one of our best writers working at the top of his game...
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Fantasy Literature
| Stefan Raets
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Review Rating: 95
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This is one of those novels that's so good, you'll occasionally close the book after finishing a chapter, just to enjoy and savor what you've read before moving on.
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Fantasy Literature
| Rob Rhodes
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Review Rating: 92
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It's simply a beautiful and epic tale.
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Fantasy Book Critic
| Liviu Suciu
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Review Rating: 80
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"Under Heaven" has two awesome qualities that make it a worthwhile read by themselves: beautiful writing and exquisite world building.
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Fantasy Book Critic
| Cindy Hannikman
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Review Rating: 80
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The characters and background stories were amazing, and the mystery involved with the main plot was captivating.
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SF Signal
| Darren Cepulis
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Review Rating: 80
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A poetic escape for readers that leaves you wanting more.
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The Green Man Review
| Kelly Sedinger
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Review Rating: 80
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...simply, a great book.
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