I think that David Coe is a talented young fantasy author who is likely develop a large, loyal readership over time. His first book, Children of Amarid, was an exceptionally promising debut; his next four books have been more uneven. Seeds of Betrayal is the second book of a planned 5 book series. The series is set in a world politically and technologically reminiscent of Machiavellian Europe in the Renaissance, though without a central unifying church. Within this world, a small, frequently persecuted minority, the Qirsi, are magic users.

This second book has some undeniable strengths: the geopolitical canvas is interesting and convincing, the magic system has some original features, character motiviations are drawn in shades of gray. Most impressively, Coe's plotting is very effective. Lots of things happen; major, world changing events are brought together quickly, surprisingly, and effectively.

But, the book also fails on some levels. Most importantly, I never developed much empathy for the characters, who feel superficial and at times unrealistically oblivious. The three most important characters from the first book of the series all get less coverage here, and what they do get makes them less sympathetic. Also, I'd have to say that the dialogue is also occasionally clunky. Still I recommend this to fans of "courtly intrigue" fantasy, and I will look forward to future efforts from this talented young author. ( )