While the people of Erna struggle against the cataclysmic powers of the fae, a force of nature that transforms nightmares into reality, the pain-hungry demon Calesta plots to remake humankind for the sake of his own desires. Despite opposition by his Patriarch, warrior priest Damien Vryce again seeks the assistance of the immortal sorcerer Gerald Tarrant. While racing against time to prevent the enslavement of their world, the two men find themselves trapped between justice and retribution. Betrayal and loyalty assume ironic forms in this conclusion to Friedman's complex and compelling "Cold Fire Trilogy." The richly detailed setting and strong supporting characters give substance to a tale that explores the consequences of embracing evil in hopes of achieving its redemption. A priority purchase for fantasy collections. Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc. Readers who have followed Friedman through Black Sun Rising and When True Night Falls will not be disappointed by this stout romance that concludes another fantasy trilogy. Here are Friedman's usual virtues: plenty of action, brisk pacing, and characters and settings painted with broad strokes and vivid colors. The battle between humans and demonic beings on the planet Erna has reached its climax. One of the demonic Iezu is seeking total power over all living things, especially humans, and only the combined efforts of Damien Vryce and Gerald Tarrant can defeat it. The warrior-priest and the zombie sorcerer are unlikely allies, but Friedman makes their adventures an absorbing story. Roland Green An acknowledged master of Dark Fantasy, Celia Friedman is a John W. Campbell award finalist, and the author of the highly acclaimed Coldfire Trilogy, New York Times Notable Book of the Year This Alien Shore , In Conquest Born , The Madness Season , The Wilding and The Magister Trilogy .  Ms. Friedman worked for twenty years as a professional costume designer, but retired from that career in 1996 to focus on her writing. She lives in Virginia, and can be contacted via her website, www.csfriedman.com.