A distinct story finally emerges as the politics of the planet and the feelings the three Rhomandi brothers have for each other. ( )

Very long slow start that drags on until the action hots up later on.

Our hero brothers having been leyapulted out of the capitol, return in secret to see what the situation is with their Ringmaster Aunt. Instead they find that her protogee (Niki's wife) Lidye is in charge, and they aren't the only ones claiming to be the brothers in Charge. Thrown into prison instead they have to quickly adapt to local circumstances whilst attempting to make contact with the authorities. Aunt is comatose and soon to die, but they aren't all that happy with Lidye's stability or her temperment.

However instead of the widespread action and investigation of the world, from the previosu books we get a lot more whinning. Mikyel is studied inside and out. Deymio is particularly concerned about him, although Mikyel isn't that bothered. This occupies a lot of pages and is somewhat tedious reading in places. There's a great deal of concern over Mikyel's unstated sexuality, and also some confusion over Dancer who makes a re-appearance. Sadly tthe Ley disappears from a lot of the story. Jane's ability to keep the characters seperate and distinct from one-another continues to shine through - even if it is at times the only reason to continue reading. I can't say I ever really cared about any of the characters themselves.

However the ending thrid really picks up, and with an increase in pace and tension, it beomce enthralling once more.

Definetly a mid-trilogy book, not as novel in concept nor well explored as the first, but well worthy of contention, especially for anyone interested in perceptions of gender and their relationships to society. ( )

This is the second book in Fancher's second trilogy, Dance of the Rings. These books are fantasy, and are just the kind of book I like. They are well-written, which is of fundamental importantce. They are character-driven, focusing on the relationships among three brothers - all well-conceived, distinct individuals with strengths and weaknesses. They are tightly plotted, and well paced. Throw in a society powered by ley lines and people trying to discover electricity in competition with the ruling class, and you have enough conflict and dramatic tension for any purpose. These books are out of print and thus available only from used book sellers, sometimes at very high prices. Fancher is, however, in the process of making them available as ebooks at very reasonable prices through Closed Circle Publications, an internet site she runs with C.J. Cherryh and Lynn Abby to reintroduce their back list into the market. ( )