An interesting read that reminded me a bit of Tad William's Otherland series. Unfortunately, Zelazny passed away before completing it and the end shows it. It's rushed and leaves the reader wanting. Lots of philosophy is hinted at but never seems to get beyond that stage. However, there are some interesting ideas here that I have not seen in other works involving virtual realms. I can't wholeheartedly endorse it, but if you find it on discount or used, it might suit for an easy read. ( )

I've stated many times that I don't care for the books Jane Lindskold did with Zelazny, but I'm changing my mind with this one. While it isn't as tight & twisty as his normal books, it is a very engaging read. He's blending legend/myth into virtual reality & SF in a unique manner. Truly an epic journey.I finished it & am quite impressed. ( )

I'm not a fan of this book. The first part is fairly average Zelazny...not his best, not his worst. The last part, written after Zelazny had died, is bad Lindskold. She's much better on their Lord Demon collaboration or on her own in something like Changer. ( )

In a world where virtual reality has taken on a life of its own, the inhabitants of Virtù plots to gain power, both in Virtù and Verité.
John Donnerjack makes a deal with Death to bring back his beloved from the Ellysian fields. She who was once of Virtù comes back in Verité.
Part of the deal made with Death is the traditional firstborn. An easy bargain to make, as there has never been any viable offspring between a creature of Virtù and Verité.
When a son is created, he grows up in Verité at the expense of both his parents’ lives. Jay, along with another Virtù-Verité offspring gets involved in an effort to revive old gods and bring them from 'over' into the real world.
A very gothic novel, with a lot of texture and details that brings the many worlds it takes place in to life.
Although the dialog at times seem a little generic, the characters come alive, and their individuality makes them interesting and credible. The language is inventive and entertaining, and the use of traditional story elements in this cyberpunk setting creates a fresh and engaging story. ( )

With respect for previous reviews, I found this a very satisfying book. Then again I've become interested in the ideas of alternate mythologies and Virtu (cyberspace) is a world with its own mythos quite separate from that of Verite, full of living legends, gods and demons. The intercourse between the two worlds is only one-way though, and the main conflicts of the book begin when the religions of Virtu seek to bridge that gap.

As someone who's always been a fan of tall tales in any form, this definitely scratched my itch. ( )