The Gate of Fire
Thomas Harlan

Rating:  
Series: The Oath of Empire / Book 2
Preceding Novel: The Shadow of Ararat
Next Novel: The Storm of Heaven
Date Available: June 2001
Publisher: TOR Fantasy
Publish Date: 2000

           A powerful mix of history and wizardry characterizes Thomas Harlan’s latest novel, The Gate of Fire. The frantic action of the story covers a vast swath of the Roman Empire circa 600 AD. Long dead emperors Julius Caesar and Alexander the Great have been magically reanimated to fight at the side of the misunderstood younger brother of the current emperor.  This younger brother and sorcerer, Maxian, is but one of the many top level players in cast of thousands. In fact, it seems that Harlan’s novel has nothing but kings, emperors and of course, pretenders to the various thrones of ancient Rome and Persia. The action sweeps across continents and seas with a rapidity that sometimes leaves the reader wondering what continent they are on and which character they are meant to be following. The writing, however, is well crafted and Harlan demonstrates an impressive mastery of Roman architectural concepts and historical detail. The battle scenes, which can make or break a fantasy novel, drip with the appropriate amount of gore and the action is unencumbered by awkward language.

My only real complaint with the second installment in the Oath of Empire series is that this is clearly the staging vehicle for book three. There are huge armies moving over vast distances in order to be in position for some sort of endgame battle, but very little actually happens.  However, there are many saving graces. The best scenes occur when Harlan focuses in on the specific relationships between the characters and during the all too rare battles. The Gate of Fire is an enjoyable read that should fulfill the expectations of most fantasy readers in several categories. As for the wandering, many threaded plot, all I can suggest is patience!

Reviewed by Chris Hart