Heritage of Hastur

Rating:
Summary: This is Marion Zimmer Bradley's best book ever.
Review: This book is undoubtedly the best of all the Darkover books, and Marion Zimmer Bradley even stated herself that she felt it was. Lew Alton, one of the main charcters in the book, is her favorite character out of all the books she ever wrote (according to her own words). The book is the story of Regis Hastur, Danilo Syrtis and Lew Alton and their various intrigues and romances with others and with each other. The infamous "Sharra", an unmonitored and nearly indestructible matrix, is also a major player in the book. The death and destruction that ravages the Kilgard Hills when Sharra awakens nearly destroys all of the major characters in the book. This book is awesome.

Rating:
Summary: Her best!
Review: This is certainly the best book by Ms. Bradley, in my opinion. The characters were suited to my style, and I liked how ones from other books came back, such as Kadarin, who has lived long enough for three lifetimes! Also, the love between Marjorie and Lew Alton was so sincere; she even risked her life at the end to get him out of the situation at the burning of Caer Donn. It shows how too much power can corrupt you. For example, near the end, Lew is the only one who can think straight, and he must decide how to escape with Regis, Danilo, and Marjorie, without getting caught by Kadarin or Beltran. Overall, a very exciting book!

Rating:
Summary: A gripping, emotional work
Review: This was my first taste of Bradley's "Darkover" series, and you can bet I'll be back for more! This book tells the tale of rebellious young Regis Hastur, young heir to a legacy he doesn't feel prepared to deal with; also troubled by having to deal with his wakening "laran" (telepathy) power. It also concerns the older boy Lew Alton, who soon discovers the power and destructive force of "laran" if not controlled. The use of telepathy is no mere gimmick. Through "laran", Bradley shows the danger pent-up emotions can cause with regard to real people. I found it impossible to put this book down. Highly recommended!