From Publishers Weekly
Longtime epic fantasy readers will find many familiar elements in this intriguing debut. There's the peaceful, vulnerable land, in this case the Lowlands, threatened by the Mongol-like Wasp Empire. The lone man who sees the danger is unwilling Lowlands spymaster Stenwald Maker. A charmingly diverse group of agents and allies draws from most of the strictly delineated insect-themed clans (which rather resemble the character classes of role-playing games) and runs the gamut from naΓ―ve student to embittered mercenary. Patriotic but conflicted Wasp Thalric puts a sympathetic face on evil. Tchaikovsky exercises considerable talent in assembling these well-worn pieces into a new puzzle, developing an interesting story and world with humor and skillful prose. Readers may be pleasantly surprised to find themselves looking forward to future installments. (Mar.)
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From
On a world populated by human-insect and human-arachnid creatures, each type of kinden has special powers and aptitudes. The otherwise average Stenwold Maker, a Beetle kinden, is caught up in extraordinary times, full of violence and impending war with the Wasps. He takes it upon himself to create a small cadre of resistance fighters before it is too late. Unfortunately, heβ²s considered a crackpot, those in power ignore. But he spins his web and becomes a spymaster, doing his best to prepare for the onslaught he anticipates. Each person selected for his group has a tale, and Tchaikovsky develops each slowly, drawing the reader into the lives of each and hinting that there is more to discover. There is a continual sense of urgency and danger, yet there is also time for love and friendship. The story is quickly paced, more than keeps oneβ²s interest, and leaves one looking forward to the next book of Shadows of the Apt to learn more about the characters and how the conflict develops. --Rebecca Gerber