Synopsis
First in a new fantasy series, The Stone Dance of the Chameleon, this fresh, exciting novel follows the adventures of young Carnelian as he discovers his own powers and learns the harsh ways of the world. A first novel. 40,000 first printing.
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Review
Ricardo Pinto's first novel opens a fantasy sequence titled "The Stone Dance of the Chameleon", exploring a complex and hierarchical empire with a vaguely Oriental flavour. Young hero Carnelian journeys from his aristocratic father's remote, wintry house of exile to the heart of power--moving stage by stage from carefree family life to an imperial court dominated by unchangeable rituals that make the regimentation of Mervyn Peake's Gormenghast seem like an anarchic free-for-all. This obsessiveness is reflected in ornate masks and formal clothing, growing more bizarrely exotic as travellers approach the centre of the Guarded Land and culminating in massive "robes" of woven precious metals built up on scaffolding, plus shoes that are virtually stilts. Masks are socially necessary because any commoner who sees the face of a Master (the immensely tall ruling class) must be blinded--as Carnelian learns to his horror after briefly forgetting to cover up. Far worse mutilations are commonplace. But even amid the poisoned splendours, suffocating protocols and treachery of court life, there are tiny opportunities to break loose: our hero discovers illicit knowledge and a forbidden lover. Then, after the new God Emperor's election, there's disaster leading to a sudden cliffhanger ending. Full of rich imagery, haunting horror and the slow-motion quality of dreams, this is a series to watch. --David Langford
Review
"'Outstanding...Pinto is blazing a trail where others, no doubt, will follow'" (Amanda Foreman)
"'Pinto writes with an almost Donaldsonian/Feistian grip'" (Anne McCaffrey)
"'Boldly conceived and intelligently written...lingers in the memory like a strange and disturbing dream'" (Interzone)
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The Chosen (The Stone Dance of the Chameleon, Book 1)
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The Chosen
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Doherty Associates, LLC, Tom, 2000
ISBN 10: 0312872089
ISBN 13: 9780312872083
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The Chosen
Published by
Doherty Associates, LLC, Tom, 2000
ISBN 10: 0312872089
ISBN 13: 9780312872083
Used
Hardcover
First Edition
Seller: Better World Books, Mishawaka, IN, U.S.A.
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Condition: Good. 1st. Former library copy. Pages intact with minimal writing/highlighting. The binding may be loose and creased. Dust jackets/supplements are not included. Includes library markings. Stock photo provided. Product includes identifying sticker. Better World Books: Buy Books. Do Good. Seller Inventory # 11539654-6
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The Chosen (The Stone Dance of the Chameleon, Book 1)
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Tor Books (edition First Edition), 2000
ISBN 10: 0312872089
ISBN 13: 9780312872083
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First Edition
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The Chosen (The Stone Dance of the Chameleon, Book 1)
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The Chosen (The Stone Dance of the Chameleon, Book 1)
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The Chosen (The Stone Dance of the Chameleon, Book 1)
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The Chosen (The Stone Dance of the Chameleon, Book 1)
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