Spanning three generations, THE DIVINER tells the story of the al-Ma'aliq family and the Shagara tribe as the lands they call home are ripped apart by revenge and war. As the only survivor of the genocide of his family, Azzad al- Ma'aliq takes shelter with the Shagara, a desert tribe with sacred knowledge of healing and magic. This chance connection changes the course of both families forever. Blessed with the Shagara's friendship, Azzad builds a powerful and wealthy business. His son Alessid turns that business into an empire, but it isn't until Azzad's great- grandson Qamar is born that the implications of this alliance are felt for better or worse.

THE DIVINER is a prequel to The Golden Key by Melanie Rawn, Jennifer Roberson and Kate Elliott. I have not read The Golden Key and I felt this might have hurt my understanding of the deeper theme in this world. Don't get me wrong, the story is great. The characters are well-rounded and complex. Their motivations and desires are strong. The world is fascinating and intricate. I love nothing better than a beautifully detailed world that comes alive upon the pages and Melanie Rawn has created such a world. The people, customs, beliefs, and landscapes are gorgeous, but this saga felt a little disjointed and I truly feel that it's because I hadn't read The Golden Key first, not because the story or writing is lacking. I think I missed the clues that made the story hang together around a principle theme.

I admit to being partial to certain characters. Azzad was my favorite and it breaks my heart a bit to see his entire life unfold. I like to pretend that my favorite characters never die. When you have a generational saga like this, those favorite characters age and despite my wants, they die. It's a bittersweet emotion for a reader when those moments occur, but even while I sniffled over Azzad's death, I couldn't wait to see what happened next.

I do recommend THE DIVINER if you love epic fantasy because the family and world are worth following over the generations.

Book Summary

The only survivor of royal treachery that eliminates his entire family, Azzad al-Ma'aliq flees to the desert and dedicates himself to vengeance. With the help of the Shagara, a nomadic tribe of powerful magicians, he will finally be able to take his revenge - but at what cost?