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Originally from Scotland, Dave Duncan has lived all his adult life in Western Canada, having enjoyed a long career as a petroleum geologist before taking up writing. Since discovering that imaginary worlds are more satisfying than the real one, he has published more than forty-five novels, mostly in the fantasy genre, but also young adult, science fiction, and historical. He has at times been Sarah B. Franklin (but only for literary purposes) and Ken Hood (which is short for “D’ye Ken Whodunit?”)
His most successful works have been fantasy series: The Seventh Sword, A Man of His Wordand its sequel, A Handful of Men, and six books about The King’s Blades.
He and Janet were married in 1959. They have one son and two daughters, who in turn are responsible for a spinoff series of four grandchildren. Dave now lives in Victoria, BC.
His website is at www.daveduncan.com
Reviewed by Francine Zane for Readers' Favorite
Dave Duncan takes the reader on a fascinating journey in The Eye of Strife. When a mythical cyborg eye disappears, a series of unique characters add to the tale of its fame and disappearance. The god seeking this emblem of power is sure that one of them knows more than he is telling.
Dave Duncan weaves a storyteller's dream in The Eye of Strife. This is an intriguing adventure that relies heavily on the value of a good plot with the importance of a good cast coming in at a close second. It is easy to fall into the lyrical simplicity of the tale and only later to realize how much complexity went into weaving the twists and turns into a cohesive adventure. The sword fights, great battles, sly treason, and romance ensure that the pacing is spot on, and the selective use of humor ensures that the book never wanders too far down the path into darkness. By the time all the pieces fell into place, I was left with the gratification of having shared in a thoroughly fulfilling story.
In reviewing the audio book version of The Eye of Strife, I appreciated the professional quality production and the thoughtful selection of Anthony Lee as the narrator. Mr. Lee masterfully handles the shifts in points of view with a selection of voices, all of which add to the enjoyment of the story. His pacing is consistent, and the enunciation makes it easy to focus on the story, whether he is speaking for a male or female character. Combined with the well-written story, this audio book is a winner.
