Perhaps my favorite book by Mike. Its pacing is rather quick for the first chapter and then it takes a slight dip into the history genre. Mike is an excellent historian, as well as a writer, and he really puts in his knowledge of the French Revolution into play with the protagonist, Manfred Ritter Von Bek. Readers looking for a quick paced novel wont find it right away, but when it picks up into the otherworldly settings it's very engrossing.

The character development is amazing, especially with that of Von Bek and Libussa. Von Bek has fallen madly (I say madly with nary a difference to insanity) in love with Libussa and tragically follows her own extreme endeavor of controlling elements through alchemy. He is not nearly as strong minded or pragmatic as his ancestor found in the The Warhound and the World’s Pain.

The characters are remarkable, indeed. From the charming guile of St. Odhran to the morose and craving Klosterheim, you’ll always be emotionally attached.

The story starts in the 1700s in mid-Europe and then turns to the mysteries of alchemy-fantasy that eventually leads into some religious tones and strongly into the occult. And if you are intrigued by the alternate dimension that is the Middle March, as well as the pact with Lucifer, then check this bugger out.