Walter H. Hunt The Dark Crusade

The Dark Crusade

Walter H. Hunt

Tor, Aug 2005, $25.95, 432 pp.

ISBN 07665311178

For decades humanity has been at war with the avian-like species the Zor. Now not only peace and friendship reigns between the two former enemies but they both go to war against the insectoid Vuhl. The two adversaries have Sensitives, people with psi powers, but the Vohl have technology that allows the drones to amplify their powers so that they can control their enemy.

The war has been going on for over a quarter of a century and both sides have suffered heavy losses. Admiral Anderson is determined to break the stalemate but the leader of the Blazing Star, John Smith trained by former Guardian Commander Owen Garreth, has found a way to amplify sensitive power without technology. After some stunning results, hope arises that the devastating war will soon end even if it means the unknown Smith will be the real power in the realm.

The DARK CRUSADE is Walter H. Hunt's finest writing achievement. His ability to describe a far flung human empire, examine the culture of an alien species, and his descriptions of mundane and metaphysical battles are creatively impressive and entertaining. Although this work is epic in scope, individual characters are realistically portrayed and understood by a grateful audience.

Harriet Klausner