The Traveler by John Twelve Hawks

I'm hooked. John Twelve Hawks integrated international espionage with shamanism and took us into a labyrinth of what ifs. I love the idea of the Travelers being shaman witches and the Harlequins serving as their protectors. I identify with the character Maya, the lone warrioress," as she plays out her role in this devious plot to stop humans from understanding the illusions of the "reality." Elements of Epics from our past. May the force be with JTH as her brings us a new trilogy with meaning, action, and suspense.

I rarely pick up a new author any more. But, I was looking for a good stress reliever and something fun after reading The Motorcycle Diaries. I must admit that the cover with its motorcycle rider was the first thing to catch my attention, so good marketing there. Luckily, inside was an actual treat with some depth beyond the cloak and dagger. I didn't mind and actually enjoyed the buddhist influences I saw throughout the book. I expect this will be built upon in the future books. I admit to actually staying up way to late to finish this as the action built to the conclusion. Haven't done that in probably thirty some years. I did wince a bit at a few of the obvious expected outcomes, but overall ready to read the next one and see what happens. Hope it's as much fun.

I am half way through The Traveler and I had to compliment your excellent triumph of suspense writing in a fantasy realm. The story does indeed reflect our currant society of surveillance suggested by Orwell. But you add the techniques of today that is more scarier for anyone. I am 68 and grew up in the age where we said it will never happen (the apprehension of being observed all the time) Looking forward to the next book. Robert Baker