After seven or so years on hiatus, Robert Asprin returns to the world of Skeeve and Aahz in Myth-ion Improbable. And while it takes a few pages for the book to hit its stride and get the old feel right, once it does it keeps it 'til the end.

I still have some doubts about placing a new story between Myth Directions and Hit or Myth, two books in the series that were written some time ago, but when I read the new novel, those doubts slipped away.

It was hardest to get used to Skeeve, who seems different, more mature, than I remember him from the last time around. Still, the changes remain true to his character; Aahz is still the gruff mentor he has always been, and it's still a treat to watch the give and take between him and Skeeve.

But as much as I enjoy the relationship between the two it is the plot and the small details that make the story work. Whether it be in the repeat dealings with a shifter to get help with a map or the full impact of having a world ruled by vampires who spend their days as -- no, I shouldn't spoil that surprise. In any event, it is some of those small details that make a quest for a golden cow take several unexpected twists and turns.

Myth-ion Improbable is an enjoyable romp that keeps revealing new things as you go along. Robert Asprin has done a wonderful job of reminding me why I enjoyed the earlier myth-adventures of Skeeve and Aahz.

[ by Paul de Bruijn ]
Rambles: 23 March 2002