Storm Dancer ~ Book Review

Book Review

Storm Dancer
By Rayne Hall

In Storm Dancer, Rayne Hall has created a rich and vibrant world that rings with intensity. Set in a place that feels vaguely like the Middle East, there are elements of barbarism as well as civilization peppered throughout the different cultures we are presented with. Detailed societal structure and belief systems make each of these cultures come alive. Layered atop this intriguing environment are characters that take hold of your imagination and stay with you long after you have stopped reading.

The two main characters, Dahoud and Merida, are both at a crossroads in their lives as our story opens. They each feel they have things to prove to themselves, and to the world. While from vastly different backgrounds, the two are more alike than either would care to admit. Passionate and willing to go to great lengths to achieve their goals, these two clash with an almost Machiavellian style. Watching the two equals come to terms was wonderful. A moment that especially spoke to me was when Merida attempts to “escape” Dahoud, only to see a wildfire coming toward the town and return to give warning. With this and other acts that night, she saves his town; then, he saves her life.

Dahoud and Merida are not the only captivating personalities found in these pages. Tarkin and Teruma are two of my other favorites. Both show resourcefulness and a devious subtlety that is quite impressive. There are characters that I loved to hate, as well. Merida’s mother was not particularly endearing. Kirral was fascinatingly disgusting. Mansour was a powder keg of suspense for me.

I thought this was an amazing read; a great story, well told and set in a fascinating environment. While it got a bit dark in places and touched on very dark themes that could disturb some, all in all I’d say that this is a book that avid fantasy readers will want to dive right into.