Review of Falcons of Narabedla by Marion Zimmer Bradley
When I stumbled across Falcons of Narabedla, I felt an undeniable pull towards it. Marion Zimmer Bradley’s legacy in the realm of fantasy is extensive, and as someone who adores tales of body-switching and alternate worlds, this seemed like a treasure waiting to be unwrapped. With curiosity tinged by a bit of skepticism—given its mixed reviews—I dove in, hoping for the enchanting world that Bradley often crafts.
Right from the beginning, I was intrigued by the premise of Mike Kenscott being transported to the vivid world of Narabedla, assuming the identity of Adric from the ominous Crimson Tower. The concept of inhabiting another’s existence is not just a fantastical trope; it wrestles with themes of identity, belonging, and the quintessential struggle for survival. As Kenscott navigates this strange terrain, the weight of his newfound responsibilities looms larger with each turn of the page.
Bradley’s writing style here is reflective of her early career. The narrative is a bit choppy, as mentioned by other readers, and at times it feels like it is trying to stretch a short story into a full-length novel. Yet, there’s a charm in her world-building that keeps your imagination lingering. One moment, you’re engulfed in Kenscott’s disorientation, experiencing Narabedla’s alien landscapes and customs alongside him; the next, you’re whisked away into his attempts to unravel the mystery surrounding the Dreamers. In essence, this novel becomes a tapestry of conflicting emotions from bewilderment to curiosity.
What I found particularly striking were the thematic elements of consciousness and the dreamlike quality of reality that Bradley weaves throughout. As Kenscott grapples with his dual identity, it invites readers to reflect on their notions of self and the concept of dreams as a bridge to other realities. There are hints of deeper philosophical concerns that spark thought and introspection, even if buried under occasional narrative lags.
There were standout moments that resonated with me; Bradley masterfully conjured scenes that mimicked dreams—fluid, surreal, and evocative. A moment that stuck with me was when Kenscott realizes that in order to understand Narabedla, he must first confront the shadows of the mind. It beautifully captures that feeling of being lost both in a new world and within oneself.
While some critics have lamented the disjointedness of the plot, I found it somewhat reflective of the chaos of a dream state. Like dreams tend to fragment narratives, so does this novel. It might not be Bradley’s crowning achievement, especially when compared to her more celebrated works, but it’s an exploration worth taking if you approach it with the right mindset.
In conclusion, Falcons of Narabedla may not resonate with every reader, particularly those seeking the polished narratives found in Bradley’s more mature works. However, lovers of imaginative fantasy, body-swapping tales, and those who appreciate an author’s journey from early to later career might find a sweet spot here. For me, this experience was a gentle reminder that literature can transport us not just geographically, but also emotionally. It’s a whimsical, if flawed, ride that I would still recommend to those curious enough to explore the terrains of unfamiliar lands—and minds.
You can find Falcons of Narabedla here >>