Changer by Jane M. Lindskold, a Review

Changer by Jane M. Lindskold was one of the books I won courtesy of EOS earlier in the year. If I'd had to pay for it I don't think I'd have got it. The cover is not terribly attractive and the blurb on the back is downright off-putting.

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It may just be me, but I am a bit tired of fantasy books that include Arthur and the rest of his entourage. Add to that the fact that he was being transplanted to a modern setting and that I wasn't familiar with the authors work…

So I approached this book with considerable trepidation. I'm pleased to say that my fears were unfounded though. This is a thoroughly entertaining book. Not content with just the Arthurian mythos Lindskold also throws in yetis, mermaids and greek goddesses.

The bulk of the story is set in a vividly realised New Mexico. I've never been there so I can't testify to its accuracy, but it was very convincing to read. The plot itself concerns an attempt to overthrow King Arthur and his accord masterminded by a very familiar trickster.

The first stage of the plan results in the death of the Changer's coyote family. The Changer is one of the oldest of the "Athanor" and named due to his ability to take any living form. The Changer is a wild an unpredictable force. The intention is to destabilise the accord.

Lindskold introduces us to a wide range of characters many of whom will be familiar from various legends. Her interpretations of these characters are effective working with the commonly accepted elements of their legend while still revealing new angles to their personality. One nice touch is the way that many of the Athanor have actually been several legendary characters in their lifetime.

One of the interesting aspects of this book is the way that these ancients have adapted to new technology. Revolt is fomented via an internet bulletin board. The Athanor of the sea tap into telephone cables in order to communicate with those on land.

This is a very lighthearted book with lots of humour to it. The interaction between these characters with their long histories is particularly sweet. The only real disappointment is that the book is left so blatantly open ended for a sequel. While the central plot is resolved, all the INTERESTING stuff is left wide open.