Overcaptain by L.E. Modesitt, Jr [Saga of Recluce #24] : Review

L. E. Modesitt, Jr. continues the Saga of Recluce, the long-running, best-selling epic fantasy series. Overcaptain, the sequel to From the Forest, continues to follow the early life of a man known by many names depending on who you ask—hero, tyrant, emperor.

Alyiakal, overcaptain in the Mirror Lancers of Cyador, has completed his tour of duty as officer-in-charge of a small, remote post. He just wants to finish and see his best friend consorted and assume his next post assignment. If only it were that easy.

He discovers corruption in the Merchanter Clans of Cyador, but investigating Mirror Lancer officers end up dead. Before he can go on leave, he has to replace one of these officers, close a post, dodge an attempt on his life, and an investigation from Magi-i.

At Lhaarat, Alyiakal is assigned as a deputy commander to a post that never had one, and the commander doesn’t want one—and that’s just the beginning of Alyiakal’s problems.

As someone who has been a longtime fan of L.E. Modesitt Jr.’s Recluce series, I was excited to spend my day off reading yet another one of his books. Though, it’s kind of crazy to me that there are now over 20 books in this series and each new installment always seems to surprise me with fresh perspectives and compelling characters. I don’t know how he does it but somehow Modesitt keeps finding ways to make each story feel new and interesting without losing the familiar elements that make the Recluce world so captivating. I spent my entire day off reading this book and that’s one of the many reasons I keep coming back to this series year after year.

There is always a lot I enjoy about this series and what sucks me into the story always seems to be different with each book. For Overcaptain  I found the plot to be both engaging and intricate and it drew me in from the start. Alyiakal, an overcaptain of the Mirror Lancers is a fantastic character who makes for a compelling protagonist with his mix of duty, honor, and the personal challenges he faces. I also really enjoy that with Alyiakal’s story Modesitt explores an era of the series that’s frequently referenced in the other Recluce books. Watching this story unfold in a period of the world’s history that has always felt important helps add even more depth to the world, making it feel more expansive and alive.

Another highlight of the book for me is how Modesitt handles themes of duty, loyalty, and integrity. Watching Alyiakal do his best to protect himself, his men, and even his country while having mixed feelings about all of them was fascinating. It’s also always really interesting seeing the use of Order through the eye of someone whose people use Chaos more and who looks upon those of Order with distrust. My only real complaint about this book is I now have to wait who knows how long for the next book in the series to find out how Alyiakal’s story finishes or continues.

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.