From Publishers Weekly
In this ninth entry in the Dragon Knight series, Jim EckertDformerly a 20th-century mathematicianDhas adapted fairly well to the alternate-world 14th century, where he is not only a knight but an upper-level apprentice in Magick. Having learned to control his ability to change into a dragon, he has also come to practical terms with the world in which he and his wife, Angie, now reside. After toying with Arthurian legend in the previous volume (The Dragon in Lyonesse), the saga now returns to its semihistorical setting, Jim's castle, Malencontri, and its English environs. Sir Jim deals with the domestic (servants, unexpected guests, the marriage of friends Geronde and Brian), the political (machinations surrounding Edward III and his son and heir, Edward, the Black Prince), the medical (the bubonic plague), the martial (war against shape-changing goblins who carry plague-tipped spears) and, as always, dark powers and the "magickal." One of the charms of the series is the author's logical approach to magic. Not only does it follow strict metaphysical laws, there's even a sort of credit limit on how much one can use. The series has always explored the meaning of friendship, love, faith and loyalty rather than focusing on heroics and the high fantastic. This time out, there's about as much napping, tea-sipping and recovering from strenuous magical work and disease as there is swash and buckle. But the readerDwhether new to the series or familiar with itDwill not tire. Comfortably genuine characters, wit, the insightful juxtaposition of modern protagonists, "real" medieval life and the fantastic make for a highly enjoyable read. (Dec. 18) Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.


From Booklist
In Dickson's fantastical alternate history, which began, books ago, as just an excellent joke, the black death has come to England. Jim--now Sir James--Eckert, the time-displaced weredragon, and his lady are trying to devise quarantine and nursing procedures to save their own people and anyone else who will listen. Meanwhile, Prince Edward, the Black Prince of our world's history, comes calling, accompanied by the fair maid of the title, and asking for Jim's help in a rapprochement with the king. The breach between father and son is kept alive partly by the prince's own brashness and partly by the intrigues of the lord chamberlain. In the middle of all this, word arrives that an army of goblins is using the plague as a weapon. Dickson's erudite medievalism shows to advantage here as he spins off numerous plot developments, some humorous, without overwhelming the story. If less than an ideal book to start an acquaintance with Dickson's ongoing course in draconic studies, this is fine fare for advanced students. Roland Green
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Jim Eckert, the Dragon Knight, must now confront the three disasters that lie in wait for any visitor to the English Middle Ages: war, plague, and Plantagenets.

The plague is caused by a covert invasion of shape-changing goblins with plague-tipped spears taht seek to take over the world. Meanwhile, Eckert's castle is invaded by Plantagenets: Edward III, his son Edward the Black Prince, and Joan, the Fair Maid of Kent.

Against the background of a full-scae human-versus-goblin war, these worthies move in a swirl of intrigue and dynastic tension. And, as usual, it's up to Jim Eckert, in all his scaly glory, to make sure good triumphs in the end.

FROM THE CRITICS

Publishers Weekly

In this ninth entry in the Dragon Knight series, Jim EckertDformerly a 20th-century mathematicianDhas adapted fairly well to the alternate-world 14th century, where he is not only a knight but an upper-level apprentice in Magick. Having learned to control his ability to change into a dragon, he has also come to practical terms with the world in which he and his wife, Angie, now reside. After toying with Arthurian legend in the previous volume (The Dragon in Lyonesse), the saga now returns to its semihistorical setting, Jim's castle, Malencontri, and its English environs. Sir Jim deals with the domestic (servants, unexpected guests, the marriage of friends Geronde and Brian), the political (machinations surrounding Edward III and his son and heir, Edward, the Black Prince), the medical (the bubonic plague), the martial (war against shape-changing goblins who carry plague-tipped spears) and, as always, dark powers and the "magickal." One of the charms of the series is the author's logical approach to magic. Not only does it follow strict metaphysical laws, there's even a sort of credit limit on how much one can use. The series has always explored the meaning of friendship, love, faith and loyalty rather than focusing on heroics and the high fantastic. This time out, there's about as much napping, tea-sipping and recovering from strenuous magical work and disease as there is swash and buckle. But the readerDwhether new to the series or familiar with itDwill not tire. Comfortably genuine characters, wit, the insightful juxtaposition of modern protagonists, "real" medieval life and the fantastic make for a highly enjoyable read. (Dec. 18) Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.

VOYA

This latest book in Dickson's Dragon series that began with The Dragon and the George (Doubleday, 1976), again follows twentieth-century college professor James Eckert, who has been transported to the fourteenth century where he is known as Baron Sir James Eckert, Lord of Malencontri Castle and apprentice Magickian. Jim, as he is called affectionately by those close to him, not only is gifted in Magick, but he also has the ability to transform himself into a dragon. Edward, Prince of England, and his mistress, Joan, the Fair Maid of Kent, come to Jim and his wife, Angela, who also has been transplanted, to request their aid. Edward's father, King Edward III, has been persuaded by the dishonest Earl of Cumberland that the prince is an unworthy successor. At the same time, Jim and Angie must deal with the approach of the Black Plague and an attack by a goblin army. Because of Jim and Angie's knowledge of cleanliness and medicine from the future, they are able to escape the Plague. There is much history in this book, mostly accurate. Information about day-to-day life as well as celebrations and battles is detailed. There are elements that do not conform, and Jim usually reminds himself—and readers—that this England's fourteenth century is not exactly the same Middle Ages he studied. A detailed historical note explains some of the differences between actual history and the novel. This well-written book does not stand alone well and probably will be picked up only by fans of the Dragon series or Dickson' other works. Teens interested in English history might be persuaded to try the series. VOYA CODES: 4Q 3P S A/YA (Better than most, marred only by occasional lapses; Will appealwith pushing; Senior High, defined as grades 10 to 12; Adult and Young Adult). 2000, Tor, 416p, $26.95. Ages 16 to Adult. Reviewer: Marlyn Roberts SOURCE: VOYA, August 2001 (Vol. 24, No. 3)

Library Journal

As marauding goblins bring plague and war to England, James Eckert, the dragon knight, becomes embroiled in the complexities of love and politics. Crossing paths and destinies with Edward Plantagenet--the Black Prince--and his paramour, the beautiful Joan of Kent, Eckert must use his knowledge of magic and the modern world that was once his home to protect the future of England and the fates of those he loves. Dickson's latest entry in his popular "Dragon Knight" series maintains the high standards of its predecessors. Superb attention to period detail and a cast of believable and engagingly fallible characters make this a solid addition to fantasy collections. Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.

St. Paul Pioneer Press

Dickson pulls more surprises out of his storytelling hat than any other writer working in light fantasy.

The Washington Times

The Dragon Night slays readers with its wit, verve, joy.

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