| As the second book in the series, the Dune Messiah places us in the middle of the political struggles in running an empire. Within this book we experience a reluctant ruler…Paul Atreides besieged by the plotting of his enemies. The Bene Gesserit Sisterhood has aligned itself with the Guild and some other players including someone very close to the throne. Interestingly, the book gives you the feeling that you are aware of all the plots and counter-plots being presented. Therfore, it refreshing to see that when all these plots come into execution, you find yourself as surprised as the plotters at the unexpected results.
The book is a necessary transition tool and sets a firm foundation for the next book in the series (climax of the original trilogy)The Children of Dune. Although this book it is very dry at times and heavily laced with dialog, it is worth reading if only to see how many webs can be woven in political intrigue. And as mentioned earlier, the ending is quite spectacular and certainly sets up the next book in the series. Overall, a most satisfying read. | ||
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Plot & Themes Tone of book - suspenseful (sophisticated fear) FANTASY or SCIENCE FICTION? - science fiction story Political power play Yes Political plotlets - factions fight within govt for control Is this an adult or child's book? - Adult or Young Adult Book Descript. of chases or violence - 10 % planning/preparing, gather info, debate puzzles/motives - 40 % Feelings, relationships, character bio/development - 30 % Descript. of society, phenomena (tech), places - 20 % Main Character Identity: - Male Profession/status: Age: - 20's-30's If magical mental powers: - can see into the future Main Adversary Identity: - society Age: - long-lived adults Has magical powers? Yes Magical/mental powers of main antagonist: - can see into the future - can read emotions - is very quick How much of work is main antagonist actually present in: - throughout most of the book. How sensitive is this character? Sense of humor - Mostly serious with occasional humor Intelligence - Smarter than most other characters Setting Terrain A substantial portion of this book takes place on a non-Earth planetary body: - humans in a futuristic society - very controlled society Planet outside solar system? Yes Writing Style Accounts of torture and death? - moderately detailed references to deaths scientific jargon? (SF only) - none/very little science jargon needed How much dialogue? - roughly even amounts of descript and dialog |
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