The Towers of the Sunset
L. E. Modesitt, Jr.'s The Magic of Recluce took the fantasy field by storm. "An intriguing fantasy in a fascinating world, with characters who catch you up. Modesitt presents an interesting study of Chaos versus Order, Good versus Evil... and the attractions each of them has for all of us," said Robert Jordan, best-selling author of The Dragon Reborn. Library Journal praised its "new look at magic." Andre Norton said "This is a refreshing use of the traditional fantasy elements." Amazing praised the "original and interesting twists" and said, "...the universe he's built is fascinating. I hope he visits Recluce, Candar and their neighbors again in the future."
Towers of the Sunset returns to Recluce to tell the tale of the founding of the island kingdom, and of the heroic life of its founder, the powerful weather-magician Creslin. Son of the powerful military matriarch of Westwind in the northern mountains, he chooses exile rather than an arranged marriage and sets out on a search for his true identity as a man, developing his magical talents through constant conflict with the enigmatic white wizards of Candar. Creslin, unknowing, stands in the way of their subtle plot to subjugate the world.
Filled with magical conflict, physical danger, mystery and love, mastery and triumph, Creslin's tale is a worthy equal to The Magic of Recluce.
"This is a writer who cares about his characters and his world. This is disciplined fantasy, not fluff. L. E. Modesitt, Jr. is uncompromising when it comes to the effects of magic, both on the natural world and of the human heart. There are no cheap solutions to the problems of Recluce. Because of that, it is a world worth returning to." – Megan Lindholm
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L. E. Modesitt, Jr.
L. E. Modesitt, Jr. is a name that resonates deeply in the world of science fiction and fantasy, particularly for readers who crave intricate world-building, compelling characters, and philosophical musings woven seamlessly into action-packed narratives. With a career spanning decades, Modesitt’s works explore complex themes of power, morality, and societal structure, all set against the backdrop of expansive universes where every decision ripples out with consequences.
Born in the mid-20th century, Modesitt’s early life was shaped by a love of literature, history, and the natural world. His formal education in political science and economics, coupled with his time as a writer, editor, and even a political assistant, gives his work a layer of intellectual depth rarely seen in speculative fiction. These experiences have contributed to the sharp political and ethical dilemmas that surface in his novels, particularly in his Recluce series, which explores a world governed by the struggle between order and chaos.
Saga of Recluce
In the Saga of Recluce, L. E. Modesitt, Jr. crafts an intricate tapestry of magic, politics, and philosophy, set against the backdrop of a world where balance is everything. This epic fantasy series draws readers into a land where the very fabric of reality is shaped by opposing forces of order and chaos, and the consequences of wielding power are both profound and personal.
Saga of Recluce consists of twenty-five primary books, and includes one additional book that complement the series but is not considered mandatory reads and series is set to expand with the upcoming release of one more book. The current recommended reading order for the series is provided below.
