The Long Price Quartet: A Shadow in Summer
“A Shadow in Summer” is a fantasy novel written by Daniel Abraham. The story is set in the city of Saraykeht, a bustling hub of commerce and culture, where the inhabitants live in the shadow of the powerful and enigmatic andats – beings of great power and magic. The narrative follows the lives of several characters, each with their own struggles and ambitions, as they navigate the intricate political landscape of the city. As tensions rise and betrayals unfold, a shadow looms over Saraykeht as ancient powers and dark forces begin to stir. “A Shadow in Summer” is a tale of power, loyalty, and destiny, filled with intrigue and magic that will keep readers captivated from start to finish.
A Shadow in Summer Plot Summary
“A Shadow in Summer” is the first book in the Long Price Quartet series by author Daniel Abraham. The novel follows the story of the city of Saraykeht and its people, and the power struggles and intrigues that unfold within its walls. The plot revolves around the city’s use of andabas, a magical substance that allows its users to manipulate shadows and weave them into powerful constructs.
The story begins with the introduction of several key characters, including the poet Heshai, a man with a mysterious past and a close friend to the ruler of Saraykeht, Amat Kyaan. Amat is a powerful and influential woman in the city, and she has plans to expand Saraykeht’s power through the use of andabas. However, the use of andabas is not without its dangers, as those who wield it must be careful not to lose control of their shadows, as they can be used against them.
The plot thickens when a young woman named Otah discovers that his best friend, Maati, has been chosen to be a poet under Heshai’s tutelage. Maati is a talented young man with a unique ability to see the patterns of the world through his dreams. As Maati begins to learn the art of weaving shadows, he uncovers a plot to use andabas for nefarious purposes, and he must decide where his allegiances lie.
Meanwhile, Amat Kyaan’s plans for expanding Saraykeht’s power are derailed when a rival city, Machi, threatens to declare war on them. Amat must navigate the treacherous political landscape of Saraykeht to maintain her hold on power and protect her city from destruction. As tensions rise between Saraykeht and Machi, the city becomes a powder keg of political intrigue and shadowy manipulations.
As the story progresses, Maati uncovers a conspiracy to use andabas to enslave the people of Saraykeht, and he must seek out Heshai’s help to stop it. Together, they embark on a quest to uncover the truth behind the conspiracy and put an end to the use of andabas for evil purposes. Along the way, they face betrayal, danger, and moral dilemmas that test the limits of their loyalty and their morality.
Meanwhile, Amat Kyaan finds herself at odds with the ruler of Machi, a powerful and ruthless man named Balasar Gice. As tensions escalate between the two cities, Amat must make difficult choices to protect her city and her people. The fate of Saraykeht hangs in the balance as the conflict between the two cities comes to a head.
As the climax of the story approaches, Maati and Heshai must confront the mastermind behind the conspiracy to enslave Saraykeht and put an end to his nefarious plans. The final showdown between good and evil will test their resolve and their courage, and the fate of Saraykeht will be decided by their actions.
In the end, “A Shadow in Summer” is a riveting tale of power, betrayal, and sacrifice set against the backdrop of a vibrant and complex world. Daniel Abraham’s rich prose and compelling characters bring the city of Saraykeht to life, and readers will be drawn into the tangled web of intrigue and danger that surrounds its inhabitants. The novel is a masterful blend of fantasy and political intrigue, and fans of the genre will be captivated by its intricate plot and well-drawn characters.
Overall, “A Shadow in Summer” is a must-read for fans of epic fantasy and political drama. Daniel Abraham’s storytelling prowess shines in this novel, and readers will be eagerly awaiting the next installment in the Long Price Quartet series. With its blend of magic, politics, and complex characters, this novel is sure to captivate and enthrall readers from beginning to end.
A Shadow in Summer Key Takeaway
A key takeaway from the book “A Shadow in Summer” by Daniel Abraham is the power of resilience in the face of adversity. The characters in the book face numerous obstacles and challenges throughout the story, but they continue to push forward and confront their fears head-on.
The character of Otah in particular embodies this sense of resilience as he navigates the complex political landscape of the city of Saraykeht. Despite facing betrayal and manipulation from those closest to him, Otah remains steadfast in his dedication to protecting the city and its people.
Another key takeaway from the book is the importance of friendship and loyalty. The bonds formed between the characters serve as a source of strength and support in times of crisis. The relationships between the characters deepen and evolve as they band together to overcome their challenges.
Overall, “A Shadow in Summer” is a story of perseverance, loyalty, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. It serves as a reminder that with determination and support from those around us, we can overcome even the most difficult of circumstances.
Conclusion
In A Shadow in Summer, the main characters complete their quests and face the consequences of their decisions. Everything comes to a head as they navigate political intrigue, complex relationships, and the consequences of their actions. The story reaches a satisfying conclusion, tying up loose ends while leaving room for further exploration in future books in the series.
Review:
A Shadow in Summer is a beautifully crafted tale of betrayal, love, and sacrifice in a richly detailed fantasy world. The intricate plot keeps readers on the edge of their seats, while the well-developed characters draw them in emotionally. Daniel Abraham’s writing is lyrical and evocative, painting a vivid picture of a world on the brink of change. The novel is a masterclass in world-building, with a deep sense of history and culture that adds depth to the story.
Recommendation:
Fans of epic fantasy series like A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin or The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan will enjoy A Shadow in Summer. Readers who appreciate complex characters, political intrigue, and intricate plotlines will find much to love in this book. The blend of magic, politics, and personal drama make it a compelling read for fans of the genre. Overall, A Shadow in Summer is a captivating and intelligent fantasy novel that is sure to leave readers eagerly awaiting the next installment in the series.
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