I was really excited about this book, because I do love historical fiction and I was looking forward to learn about a part of the world/history I don't really know anything about.

Unfortunately, the style of writing in this book was not for me . I tried a few times and just couldn't get into it. I kept thinking maybe I have it wrong and it's not fiction.

Since I only read a couple of chapters, I don't feel right giving it a rating - good or bad but since I have to, unfortunately I will go with my rating for books I just couldn't get through.. Not all books are for everyone, and this one just wasn't for me.

I was hoping for a well-paced action/adventure. Mr. Wasserman does a great nonfiction book, and should stick with that. While I understand his reasons for presenting this theory as fiction, I think he needs more practice with pacing and character development before trying novels again. I could not develop sympathy for any of his characters, the magic seemed to be simply a dramatization of authentic ritual, albeit with some fantastic elements, and thus more of a teaching tool than an exciting interlude to move forward and develop the story, and I didn't make it through the climax as I got bored and quit. I am quite disappointed in this, and very sad about that fact. I love Wasserman's nonfiction and had hoped this would live up to that.

The copy wasn’t provided in Kindle format. Therefore, I wasn’t able to read this book and to write a review.