‘This is quite an extraordinary debut novel; it may well be considered one of the most remarkable books of 2008 . . . Strides the length of The Silk Road . . . dangerous journeys and desperate battles, treacherous enemies and loyal friends . . . fierce current of the narrative. The adventure is always strongly visual, perhaps potentially filmic; human and horse, for example, are fused together through visions of swirling colour rather than dialogue. Riding the many powerful narrative lines is a fine accomplishment by Mr Ward – and it will be a challenging, but exciting achievement for his readers’
- Books for Keeps
‘In this intensely colourful novel, Peter Ward approaches China's old legends and myths with tremendous gusto and attention to detail, with an epic adventure that should effortlessly capture the imaginations of younger as well as older readers...Peter Ward blends highly involving storytelling with a profusion of historical detail. But no matter how spectacular and pyrotechnic the various demons and goblins of this world are, Ward also keeps us rooted with strongly drawn characterisation’
- Daily Telegraph
‘A hugely ambitious saga propelled along by the strong flow of the central narrative. It's quite an achievement to make a novel of this scope and size such a compulsive page turner, but Ward manages to keep readers glued to his story with his powerful writing and plotting. A brilliant and challenging read’
- John Millen, South China Morning Post
‘The setting is well-realised; small, evocative details ground it in reality and bring it to life. Descriptions – of the dragon horses particularly – are gorgeous. The story is pacey, rich, and satisfying, taking the reader on an uncommon and rewarding journey. At the end is an interesting and helpful “Author’s Historical Note” on The Silk Road, and the history, cultures, and symbology that feed into the story’
- www.writeaway.co.uk
‘An absorbing tale’ - School Librarian
‘This is a well-researched, magical book where not a word wasted. The characters are spellbinding and the heart-pounding story keeps you riveted till the end’
- 5 Star Review, Good Reading (Australia)
‘Set against the rich, vibrant world of the Great Silk Road in the first millennium AD and based on real myths, this is a tale filled with a whole host of inventive and fascinating characters, from snow demons to a jade army and a fellowship of monks sworn to uphold light, life and truth’ - Maitland Mercury
‘If you only read one book this year make it this one! Gripping and absorbing, you won’t want to put this book down!’ - DMAG (Australia)
‘In a word: Captivating’ - Herald Sun
‘Highly readable and unquestionably enjoyable’ - Fantasy Book Review
‘The subsequent action is extraordinary, leading to a titanic, even disturbing conclusion. The intricacy of the plotting and the evocation of atmosphere are superbly done’
- Dennis Hamley, Armadillo
‘The climax is stunning, leaving the reader gasping in surprize. It is a wonderful debut novel. Although billed as a children's book; adults will enjoy it too. Characterisation is brilliant - Rokshan develops from a young boy confused about his future into a considerate, determined hero intent on doing what he believes is best. I look forward to more stories by this very promising writer’
- www.m&c.com (monsters and critics); US