Retro Review - Nine Princes in Amber by Roger Zelazny

I know this book is a little older than what I’m used to (from the 70’s!) but nevertheless, my uncle recommended it to me, so how could I refuse?

Besides, it doesn’t read like it was released before I was born – except of course when every now and then the narrator would say: ‘said she’ instead of ‘she said’. Though I suppose it could be argued that this is more of a preference by Zelazny rather than an indicator of the date.

I have to start off by saying that Zelazny really has crafted something special and I can see why he’s got such a good reputation. Nine Princes in Amber is the first in the Chronicles of Amber series, and honestly I’m glad that there’s more to read. Not least of course because of how the first book ended (no spoilers)!

Our MC, Corwin, awakens with no memory of his identity, which perfectly sets the stage for a journey of self-discovery where we learn about Corwin, his past and his family as he tries to bluff his way through the conversations with the people who know him. Gravely injured from the beginning, we find out that Corwin has some more than human abilities to heal himself. But in this story, Corwin’s not just recovering his memory; he's rediscovering his place in the cosmic hierarchy of Amber and its shadow worlds. Because that’s what this book is – a fantasy through and through.

Blending a first-person perspective with a rich, descriptive style that immersed me for one in Corwin's world. The pacing is perfect, maintaining a balance between action-packed scenes and thoughtful introspection (and nail-biting scenes where we hope beyond hope Corwin manages to keep his inner monologue to himself). I was hooked from start to finish, and found that because the book in its entirety was relatively short, I was left wanting more. And then there’s the world-building. Amber, as the only true world, casts infinite reflections known as Shadows, a concept that's well written and described.

Zelazny doesn't just create a setting; he crafts a multiverse, filled with so many characters that interweave through what I’m calling the multiverse here. Finally, there’s a great battle. What fantasy book would be complete without a huge war for the throne of the (insert appropriate noun here: City, World, Universe…) and this one does it so well. Gathering an army at his back, Corwin storms the throne of Amber, where his brother resides as the singular ruler.

This one really set a high bar for the rest of the series, and I for one, can’t wait to continue. Overall: 9/10