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Envy of the Gods
a science-fiction novel
has a cast of five main characters that struggle through a rise to leadership
tough ethical decisions
the re-discovery and use of ancient textbooks
and a society that strives for a better
more efficient way of life.

In a ruthless and brutal age
much like our age of barbarian kingdoms
the novel takes the reader through immense social and governmental changes. Cold
power hungry Duke Atan Ishtba is on his way towards unchallenged dominance of surrounding kingdoms. Yet Raphela's intense beauty not only brought him to his knees. All his efforts at wooing her with jewels and finery are only in vain. Her heart lay with the rightful leader who is destined to rule the land with a caring and enterprising heart. Between the two they bring education to the masses
equality to women and better economic situations for the general public.

This is not done through some kind of super-human power
but rather through genuine hard work
learning to use their minds creatively and through the generosity of the Ancients – who left behind a written legacy of their advanced knowledge. The loyal support of friends like Mahtso and Fatell
help these two through their many adventures.

The author never tells us much about the Ancients
the terrain or other such background information. I was clueless
until it was made clear in the end
that the book is based in another world entirely. Certainly
the characters were quite likely to be of humanoid life. Envy of the Gods is very interesting indeed
and deserves a second read.

I do
however
feel it is necessary to voice some negative comments. The back cover does not explain the book very well at all and the front cover image does not have much appeal. I felt
that at times
some of the events were not exactly believable or could fit a realistic timetable. But then
science-fiction genres can push many boundaries that other genres cannot.

This 320-page novel by Andrea Savitch is the first in the trilogy and though it does not require subsequent novels
the author has created sufficient curiosity to entice readers to wonder where she will take them next.


ISBN#: 1-933538-11-2
Author: Andrea Savitch
Publisher: Bridgeway Books