C. J. Cherryh's new book, Destroyer, begins with a surprise. The space mission is ended and the long-awaited homecoming is a disappointment. The government has collapsed and Tabini and Damiri are in hiding.

A sudden shift in plans sends Ilisidi, her young charge Cajeidi, Bren Cameron and their Assassins' Guild protectors into a run for safety somewhere on the mainland. They find some old allies with saddled animals of speed. A delicate bargain must be struck with an old and powerful clansman, whose doubts about space exploration makes him wary and crotchety. Ilisidi and Bren must use diplomacy while the Assassins' Guild members gather to do their intricate planning.

High drama is what we expect of Cherryh's writing. The magic is in the details and in the richness of the characters. In this book, it was interesting to see the development of the aiiji's son, Cajeidi. We learn more about the father from his son than from past novels.

It was early in the morning when I finished reading Destroyer. The next day, I reread the second half to savor again the conversations and settings. I then read between the lines for the clues that point to the content of the next book, which can't come too soon. Cherryh is an excellent storyteller and a webspinner of pure delight.

- Rambles
written by Jean Marchand
published 9 July 2005