Split Infinity (Apprentice Adept) (original 1980; edition 1987)

A touch of mystery, fantasy, AND science fiction. Seems to consider the question: what is the line between science fiction and fantasy? Not a deep book, but the main character does a great job of drawing you into the story. ( )

Piers Anthony claims to never had "writer's block"...he powers through in his formulaic way (write xx chapters today, proof xx chapters of galleys later, etc.) I like to read his stuff, but my read on his formula is this: imaginative and engaging first book in a series; lots of fillers with his rarely subtle misogyny thrown in; and eventually, deterioration of what showed promise. I liked this the first time around, though never made it through his entire series, but still grabbed it for a quick nostalgic read as part of my Year of Nostalgic Rereads. I did and do think it imaginative, fun, and engaging. Fortunately, the writing is as most of his other works so simple (and the humor as always, juvenile)that it is a very quick read. ( )

Definitely an interesting book, jumping between two worlds. A mixing of genres that definitely hold opposite ends of a creative spectrum.

There are many times I thought Stile a boob, but then it is a prototype for some of Anthony's characters. I had to give him the benefit of not knowing the one world at all, though it didn't salvage his status in my mind. I'll admit I had trouble with the series earlier, but one has to dig to find the proper theme.

From a writer's standpoint, I see places where it can be tightened, better executed. Too many of the characters feel flat, even the secondary ones. I'll keep reading, because I want to see the next book go for more punch, but I'm not hopeful anymore... ( )

Substance: Anthony does a nice job of switching between a science fiction setting and a fantasy milieu. The basic story is intriguing, but is marred by some conceptual inanities and clichéd situations. However, he does a good job promoting sound ethics, such as loyalty, honesty, and responsibility.
(As with most popular fiction today, sex is just a perk, not a problem, although the ensuing relationship difficulties are fairly treated.)

Style: Anthony (as in many of his books) writes on the lexical level of ages 11-15, but his unnecessary nudity and sexuality (although not in graphic detail) makes it unsuitable for that age group.
PS Riding a horse in the nude is bound to be very uncomfortable. ( )

I have residual affection for this, which was a teen favourite, but it is unreadable as an adult. The stilted language and casual sexism are jarring, as are unlikely images such as a female robot whose breasts are 'perfect' (visually and to touch, of course), but can be removed - and resemble bed pans when held upside down. You what now? One to read only if you can switch off logic and offence triggers. ( )