I don't normally have a lot of time for author collabarations, but Baen books seem to have hit (for me) a winning combination with their team of Mercedes lackey, Eric Flint and Dave Freer. I'm already a fan of Lackeys alternative history books (Elemental Magic in Edwardian England anyone ?). But picked up my first book by this trio with some trepadation... And thoroughly enjoyed it. Their (to me) second effort The Shadow of The Lion just takes them to an even higher pinnacle. Set in an alternative 15th C Venice it follows the fortunes of a number of characters attempting to survive against a background that makes your average game of Paranoia seem sedate. Weighing in at over 80 chapters the end still left me looking for more. Give it a try you may be pleasantly surprised. Is this threesome going to be the Fantasy equivalent of Niven, Pournell & Barnes ?

Ogre

I quite enjoy alternative history stuff, shall investigate further.

Guys, please. Listen. Picked up the next in the series 'This Rough Magic' and though it was let down ever so slightly by the need for a dishonestly happy ending, this is a perfect compliment to Shadow of the Lion.

Over 800 pages so took me 2 days to read, but a wonderful page turner.

It's not too often I really rave about colaborative works (except by the creature that is Niven/Pournell/Barnes), but if you've passed these buy at the library your really losing out here.

Try it

Ogre

The first of these books is now available for free download on Baens online library of FREE SF & Fantasy novels.

However, be warned, these can be adicitive.

Ogre

cheers Ogre, I could use a new addiction