Monday, March 24, 2008

The Serpent's Shadow

Book 5/25

Mercedes Lackey's The Serpent's Shadow

Though all of the book sites - and even the books themselves - proclaim this to be the first of the Elemental Masters, it is (as I've mentioned before) the second. However, this is the first book to return to Europe for its setting; The Fire Rose is the only book in the series, to date, that takes place in America.

Once again, Ms. Lackey's command of the historical period is entrancing. The blending of magic with the industry of early twentieth century England is down beautifully, and Maya's own ribbon of Indian heritage completes the scene. Her conservatory is a place of magic even before Maya learns of her own true magical gift. Maya made for a unique character on a number of levels: a child of mixed birth, a woman doctor practicing "illicit" medicine on the side, and a quiet Suffragette. Her strength is admirable, as is her determination to protect her small "family." Ms. Lackey never fails to create female characters who are capable of carrying their burdens on their shoulders -with or without assistance. A far cry from the princess in the base fairy tale of "Snow White and the Seven Dwarves."

Maya's small menagerie was a delight, and their role in the story so much greater than I originally feared they may be. Ms. Lackey wove her own Elemental magic with that of the Indian caste of gods, and the result was amazing. It strengthened Maya, even as it diminished Shivani's powers, just a shade. The layering of the types of magic took the book away from the basic elements of Earth, Air, Water, and Fire, while still preserving the habits of the Indian gods and goddesses.

When I first realized the book was based on the fairy tale of "Snow White," I was concerned; it's one of my least favorite tales. It just seems so unfair to paint a portrait of a girl so naive, she would trust anyone. Shivani's twist on the apple was better done, and it made for a much better fairy tale. Maya went from being a passive victim to a fighter in her own right, not simply lying back, waiting for Peter to unravel the clues and triumph over evil. It also a fresh change to see where the heroes determination came from; Peter earns his right to seek to save Maya, rather than accidentally stumbling across her in some "forest."

The book was beautiful, though the final chapter was confusing. The concept of the letters was nicely done, but it utilized characters who had never been mentioned before, which was confusing. I fell out of the story trying to piece everything back together, which was a shame. Ms. Lackey had woven such a beautiful tale up until that point, and, honestly, I don't believe the epilogue was even necessary. The ending was already strong, and any reader could tell where the story was leading. Still, that was a minor complaint when compared to everything I did enjoy.
Posted by Andria :: 12:30 PM :: 0 comments

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