'The Shadow of the Wizard'

★★★★

Kassim Is A Protagonist...

...that's easy to like. 

​The dialogue was well done, as was the writing. The story dragged a bit in places, which is why the four stars, but for the most part, I really enjoyed it.

​There was one part that made me think the author had a political point to make, but in this instance it was a moment when I actually said "Bravo!" out loud.
     Kassim is speaking to Anja about the evil wizard, Khalamordo. Kassim asks how someone so noble could turn out to be such a monster (apparently, the wizard wanted equality for mankind), to which Anja replies: "Full equality is, in itself, unreachable. A utopia as seductive as a mirage is for a thirsty man lost in the desert. We are all different, such is our nature. With each choice we make, even in the simplest and most ordinary, we become even more distinct from one another. Our choices ...define our fate. Some will become rich, others will suffer from poverty. Some will have love, others indifference....What would beauty be, if all things were the same?"

A commentary on society that many should take to heart.

Overall, this was a very enjoyable read with engaging characters, great dialogue, and interesting plot.