It's interesting how strange the whimsical and overtly silly elements of Dragonlance read today. Gully Dwarves, who speak in a pidgin English, Kender, who are a race of basically thieves but who are actually just really curious, and a lot of fat jokes at Caramon's expense are all in this novel. And much of those elements are the weakest; they're not really funny or charming, and they wear out their welcome very quickly in the narrative.

Yet, strangely, it's a compelling read. The characters go for things they want, they try to overcome obstacles, and there is some truly epic scope here even if the execution falters at the prose level. ( )

A superb sequel to the Chronicles and much more a novel rather than what reads like a D&D campaign. The development of characters and plot arc is much more complex and even the peripheral characters is much deeper. A great start to a deeper and more involving trilogy ( )

What a gem this series is. I remember being 12 years old and begging people to let me cut their grass, wash their windows etc. to get enough money to buy this series. It is an excellent addition to the orginal chronicles. Though these stories are attached to the Dungeons and Dragons world they are far from fluff. These are seriously good stories. In this book the relationship between Raistlin and Caramon has taken a nose dive. Caramon's love and fear for his brother has proven to have a rather adverse effect on the once proud warrior. The changing of Raistlin's robes says it all. ( )

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Time of the Twins

Raistlin Majere has become Master of the Tower of High Sorcery in Palanthas. He longs for the power of the gods and his ambition may plunge Krynn into a new age of darkness. Crysania, a true cleric of Paladin, embarks on a quest to turn him from his path of evil. Meanwhile, Raistlin’s twin brother Caramon has hit rock bottom. For years he was by Raistlin’s side, supporting his frail twin and without Raistlin, Caramon has no purpose in life. That is until he is swept up into Crysania’s plan to save his brother’s soul. Together Caramon, Crysania, and Tas will try to save Raistlin’s soul, her faith will be put to the test, and Caramon will discover the bitter taste of betrayal.

Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman have yet again done brilliant world-building with Time of the Twins. The characters will be taken back to the days preceding the Cataclysm. This is a major historic event mentioned in the Chronicles. And while there was not a great amount of time spent explaining it, the readers were able to understand that it was the reason Krynn lost touch with the Gods and their magic. And as you immerse yourself in the world of Krynn, you’ll also enjoy skillful character development.

Redemption arcs are one of my favorite tropes, and Caramon has his work cut out for him in Time of the Twins. He’s gone from a codependent relationship with his brother to suddenly no longer being needed. And even though he throws himself into anything where he can feel useful, it’s not the same. The downward spiral he becomes locked in is heartbreaking to see, especially knowing how helpful and loving his character can be. But as with most characters, the harder they fall, the more worthwhile their redemption will be.

And while Caramon is finding himself, Raistlin is weaving his complex web of a plan. Raistlin strings characters along and is a master of manipulation. But there is a heart buried beneath his black robes, one that sympathizes with those who were persecuted and ridiculed for who they were. Even as he puts characters in compromising situations and forces them to make tough choices, there are moments Raistlin begins to feel emotions that seemed lost to him.

For fans of the Chronicles, this will be a sure fire read for you. I absolutely love the conflict surrounding the Majere brothers and it’s always a joy to see Tasslehoff. Crysania may take a while to grow on readers, but she stays true to her character as a cleric of Paladin. And she causes some interesting conflicts within Raistlin. Definitely a worthwhile read! ( )

The Dragonlance books aren't exactly the most demanding series, but there is something fantastic about the world and characters that Weis and Hickman have created. Time of the Twins scales back on the number of characters, but it does so to focus on two of the most interesting. ( )