The Lord of Emperors, written by Guy Gavriel Kay, is the thrilling conclusion to the Sarantine Mosaic duology. Set in the city of Sarantium, known as Byzantium before its founding, the novel follows Purnachasing, a master artisan, and his new apprentice, the scribe Scortius. As Purni and Scortius work on a mosaic depicting the lord of the city, Emperor Valerius II, an unwelcome guest arrives. He is Leontes, the Lord of Emperors, who intends to take unspecified action against Valerius for alleged misdeeds or injustices. As the city of Sarantium begins to unravel, the two Artisans must find a way to resist the Lord of Emperors and secure justice for Valerius and the Sarantines.
The novel focuses on the artistic and political struggle caused by the Lord of Emperors. Kay’s vivid descriptions bring to life the struggles as the characters confront their beliefs, ideals, and religious traditions. The vibrant cast of characters, including princesses, merchants, and religious mystics, all contribute to the complex tale. Mortally wounded by an assassin and facing assassination himself, Valerius must rely on the artisans' craftsmanship and quick thinking. The Lord of Emperors is countered by a mysterious and powerful figure called the Jaddite Parastatic, a priestess and art collector who serves as “The Voice of Light.” As the suspense and danger in the city reaches a fever pitch, it is up to these two figures to save Sarantium and protect the people from a tyrant ruler.
The Lord of Emperors is a story of passion, political intrigue, and religious symbolism set against a backdrop of imperial grandeur. Kay’s story is enthralling and complex, full of unexpected simulations and characters with conflicting motives. Valerius, the emperor of Sarantium, is forced to take a step back and allow others to take charge in the face of a tyrant who seeks to destroy their world. Through the strength of his characters, Kay’s expertly crafted story triumphs in creating a unique and captivating narrative told from multiple narratives.
Ultimately, Kay’s Lord of Emperors is a passionate tribute to the strength of the human spirit in the face of great odds and danger. Kay expertly weaves together the stories of Purna, Scortius, and the other characters to create a compelling tale of suspense and hope. Fans of Kay’s previous works will not be disappointed, as he builds off of themes found in books like The Fionavar Tapestry to create an intriguing and complex story. Praised both by readers and critics, Lord of Emperors is a must-read tale sure to captivate the imagination of anyone who embarks on the journey to Sarantium.
