Forge, Apr 2001, 25.95, 480 pp.
ISBN: 0312869843
30,000 BC in Eurasia during an age when the ice melts and rivers overflow, everyone reveres and fears the seemingly invincible fighter Agon and his magical axe. Eena has also earned quite the reputation from their clan members due to her abilities with throwing a spear.
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The malevolent Ka, chieftain of a rival tribe, kidnaps Eena and destroys much of the clan. The intrepid Agon goes to rescue Eena and avenge his people knowing the odds against him, but also confident in the SONG OF THE AXE that he uses.
This novel will remind readers of “Clan of the Cave Bear”. As such, die-hard fans of Jean Auel's works will enjoy this tale. The story line provides much insight into known prehistory while supplemented with theories to fill the gap. However, Agon and Eena (Adam and Eve?) work as characters when they use their weapons of choice or turn spiritual. When they come together, they act more like modern couples rather than Cro-Magnon man (and woman). Still, for those who relish prehistorically set tales, John R. Dann's novel is the right stuff.
Harriet Klausner
The review of this Book prepared by Harriet Klausner