Title: Ambitious!
Product review: This is a well-written tale launching a new series by Hobb. Typical "first in series" issues noted by other reviewers are far outweighed by the writer's ability to craft an engrossing and thoughtful story. There's quite a bit here for the reader: a coming of age story augmented by themes such as environmentalism, sexism, racism, and class conflict. It will be interesting to see how the author parallels the protagonist's awakening to these issues with the conflicts they create in his society in future volumes. Fans of Linholm/Hobb's other novels should enjoy Shaman's Crossing, as should aficionados of Ursula LeGuin, Sheri Tepper, and Robin McKinley.As a service academy graduate, I also give the author credit for her accurate portrayal of a military academy. She nailed the feel of the first year experience.
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