Ordermaster

★ 8.66 / 3

Ordermaster is the 13th book in the Saga of Recluce and the direct sequel to Wellspring of Chaos. The cooper Kharl has no sooner taken possession of the estate bestowed upon him by Lord Ghrant of Austra for his aid in quelling the revolt of Ghrant's dispossessed brother, when he is summoned back to the capital. Hagen, his friend the lord-chancellor, needs help in dealing with rebellious nobles. After a bloody campaign, in which Kharl discovers and is forced to use even more deadly order magery, civil order is restored and Ghrant's throne firmly secured. But Kharl is now a famous and feared public figure, the Lord's Mage, and his notoriety makes him uncomfortable.

To his surprise, Kharl is soon called upon again by Lords Ghrant and Hagen, this time to return to his homeland of Nordla as envoy, because Nordla has become the next target of Hamorian expansion. Back in his hometown of Brysta, he discovers that his old enemy Egen is engaged in a plot with the Hamorians to take the throne from his father and open Nordla to the enemy. Kharl has to find a solution, for the sake of both the land of his birth and his adopted new country.

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Updated 04/12/2025

Category: Fantasy, High Fantasy

Release date: January 2005

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.

At the heart of the series lies the ancient, turbulent island of Recluce, where the battle between the forces of chaos and order plays out on a grand scale. The world-building in Saga of Recluce is as deep as it is expansive, with a carefully constructed magic system that is governed by the laws of balance. Those who wield magic must carefully tread the line between these forces, for to tip the balance is to risk devastating consequences. The magic isn’t just a tool; it’s an elemental force that reflects the very nature of the world itself, and its users must contend with its weight.

The characters within this world are anything but ordinary. From powerful sorcerers to humble craftsmen, each one must navigate the complexities of a society that is constantly in flux, where power struggles and personal growth are intricately tied to the magic they wield. Every protagonist has a unique relationship with the forces of order and chaos, and their journeys reveal the true cost of harnessing such power. Saga of Recluce is not a typical “good versus evil” narrative—it is a deeply philosophical exploration of choice, responsibility, and the fine line between light and dark.

Throughout the series, Modesitt’s storytelling is driven by complex moral questions. What happens when the best of intentions go awry? How does a person reconcile personal ambition with the greater good? These are the questions that challenge his characters, and ultimately, his readers. The Saga of Recluce is not just about magic and adventure; it’s a meditation on the nature of power and the ripple effect of each decision.

With its rich world-building, nuanced characters, and exploration of timeless themes, the Saga of Recluce stands out in the fantasy genre as a thoughtful, immersive series for those who crave more than just sword fights and sorcery. Each book builds upon the last, creating a layered and compelling narrative that will keep readers thinking long after they’ve turned the final page. For those willing to step into a world where magic is both a gift and a burden, the Saga of Recluce offers an unforgettable journey.

Saga of Recluce consists of twenty-four 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 two more books. The current recommended reading order for the series is provided below.