Fun story but while the writing is as good as expected the plot lacks depth.

posted Apr 16, 2008 at 12:09PM

Zelikman is a scarecrow thin, rapier-wielding doctor from the Frankish countries. Amram is a giant African ex-soldier with a very large battle ax. Together they are gentlemen of the road—swords-for-hire making their way through the Caucasus Mountains in the year 950 A.D. Their code of honor, such as it is, extends only to each other and their loyal steeds. But when they end up burdened with Prince Filaq of the Khazar Empire, they also find themselves unaccountably moved to help the young royal avenge himself upon his usurping uncle and reclaim his rightful throne. It won’t be an easy journey—Zelikman is moody, Amram is sarcastic, and privileged Filaq is just plain bad-tempered—but it will be a swashbuckling adventure filled with sword fights, surprising secrets, and even herds of exotic elephants. Michael Chabon is a Pulitzer Prize-winning author who has delved into every genre from mystery to fantasy. When he tries his hand at high adventure here with Gentlemen of the Road, he is certain to be a rousing success. The action, which takes place over one thousand years ago, is deftly and richly described. The characters are real and funny, and the adventure always rings true. Illustrations by Gary Gianni heighten the action and give a real feel that the reader is holding what is sure to be a terrifically fun story.

posted Jun 23, 2009 at 1:58PM

I thoroughly enjoyed this tale of adventure, revenge seeking, raiding, trickery, friendship, and yes even a small dose of romance. The characters are well developed and the story draws one in completely in the space of the first chapter, "On Discord Arising from the Excessive Love of a Hat," the accompanying illustrations by Hal Foster, of Prince Valiant fame, are an added bonus to this wonderful read.

posted Jan 11, 2011 at 9:39AM

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