Wind's Call – T.A. White

“The Wind’s Call” is more of a spinoff than a sequel. New main character, new supporting character, new plot, just a enough continuity. That’s a writing gamble, and in this case I don’t feel that it paid off.

The book stands on three legs, and none is quite sturdy enough. The new protagonist was not interesting enough. We are to admire her determination and her skill with animals, but her determination is one-dimensional - she has a spine when it’s about animals - and her skill with animals turns out to be a super power whose scope varies with plot necessity. The romance is the somewhat-mechanical “there’s no reason for the couple to be a couple - and besides they aren’t talking to each other - but they are irresistibly drawn to each other”.

And the main story is driven by some one or thing with whatever incredible powers are convenient to the plot. This weakens the story, because it means that if the opponent is defeated, it will be because the protagonist comes up with better powers, not because the protagonist is a better or more-capable person.

If there’s a book #5 I’ll get it, because White’s track record is excellent, but book #4 was disappointing.