Veil

With a setting that at times is very remindful of the northwest coast of North America, with a large number of tribes of indigenous folk, and various encroaching colonial outsiders from different nations, the author blends in the elements of fantasy, complete with shape-shifting magic, warring mages, and an ancient and powerful wind spirit Suriel attempting to tear a rift in the veil between worlds. Veil is the second volume in “The Call of the Rift” quintet. The main protagonist is Kateiko Rin, a teenage warrior and water-caller, who is trying to prevent what she believes will be a disaster. There is the latest love interest, Airedain from a different tribe, and a vast cast of characters and locations.

With the story being told by Kateiko, readers follow her complicated adventures through forest and busy settlements. Her tribe has been reduced by warfare, and she is often on her own as she tries to navigate the various allegiances in her search for the elusive Suriel. Kateiko often must seem to change sides as she attempts to stop the opening of the rift. After several battles and travels by canoe and sailing vessel, she finally locates Suriel and pretends to join him. By this time, she has been cast out by her tribe and has lost several friends. The climax comes as a black powder explosion, intended to tear open the rift, causes an avalanche. By the end of this chapter, the love of her life is dead along with several friends, and the rift is open wide. Kateiko passes through in pursuit of Suriel.

Veil opens with a double-page map titled “Kateiko Rin’s Travels in Anwen Bel and Surrounding Lands” and a single page map of “Caladhea City of White Sails and Disputed Capital of Eremur circa 620-630”. As I had not read the first book, Flight, I had to refer to the maps on several occasions to orient myself, and I also found many of the complicated names and references confusing. The book could have used a character biography to help readers keep the players straight. A forward or some early commentary on what had gone on in Flight would also be helpful.

Well-written, Veil, a complicated tale, would be enjoyed by those readers interested in adventure with magic, shape-shifting (Kateiko can turn into a wolf) and warriors riding on large birds. Weapons range from knives and spears to crossbows and muskets. Travel includes by horse, snowshoe, canoe, and sailing vessel.