mass market paperback, 384 pages
English language
Published Nov. 3, 2004 by Baen.
The Spirit Ring is a 1992 historical fantasy by Lois McMaster Bujold, based on Agricola's De re metallica, combined with the folkloric tradition of the grateful dead and the life of Benvenuto Cellini.
Not a bad book, but so-so compared to bujold's others. Seems like a precursor to the 5 gods
This is a solid and workmanlike piece of fantasy, which suffers mainly in comparison to Bujold's other works. Bujold usually builds clever and original worlds: this story is set in a medieval Italy where the catholic church regulates all magic. i think I've read that one before. Bujold excels at bitter, wounded, world weary protagonists (Miles, Cordelia, Ekatrin, Ista, etc.). These two are mere innocents, and the books consequently lacks the quirky charm which is her trademark. it also suffers from the inevitable romance problem. "Hmm, it seems we're the only two people the author is really paying attention to. do you think we ought to fall in love?" This is particularly disappointing since Bujold has never done this to me before. i rate it sturdy and serviceable, but not exceptional. Worth rereading once.
