*Chuckle*

You seem to have found the Labyrinths. Here will I keep all of the Library that is dark, gruesome, or (as the guard would say), “shot through with elements of horror and morbidity”. Though I wander the torch-lit halls; delight in things of great beauty; revel in the spectacular panorama provided by the many towers; and, dragon-like, hungrily hoard things of incalculable worth…this is my favorite place.

This is arguably my favorite book by Zelazny. Granted, Lord of Light is better written. Surely, The Chronicles of Amber tell a more compelling story. Be that as it may, I like Jack of Shadows best of all. It is short, to the point, and ends with a cliffhanger...no dénouement here, my friends. But best of all, it is the tale of one who wants it all – the whole sh’bang. He takes what he wants, and pays for it. What could be more fair than that?

A Night in the Lonesome October is one of the best titles I have ever heard for a book. It -- and the story associated with it -- remind me of the poetry of George Gordon, The Lord Byron; fraught with rich, dark images and grave humour. As the saying goes, I like my humour like I like my chocolate: dark. Or something to that effect…

As much as I like Jack of Shadows, this book really takes the cake. It is a better piece of writing; but then, so is Crime and Punishment. I make this comparison because, like great Russian literature, this book requires real intestinal fortitude. It is simply not for daily wear. I can pick up almost any of Roger’s works on any given day, and do some enjoyable reading. This book, like the Jewel of Judgment, draws upon the strength of the wielder to work its magic. It was not meant for ordinary mortals. But if you are prepared to hear the prayers of the Agnostic Priest, Madrak (called by some, “the Mighty”)…if you are ready to orgy with the Legions of the Dead in their dread House…if you can withstand the Hammer that Smashes Suns, and empathize with the captive who argues with his scatologist (“They are my entrails, and I will not have them misread by a poseur!”), well, then, by all means, try to find a copy.