The Tower of Fear (ISBN 0765358972)

Another Excellent Book by Cook:
"Tower of Fear" is yet another excellent book by Glen Cook. It's very well-written, exciting, and suspenseful. Unfortunately, as with almost all of Cook's books, this one is hard to find (i.e., it appears to be out of print). I don't know why publishers don't re-print these books. Outside of the Black Company books, almost none of them are now available. I know that the SFBC publishes 3 (or 4, now) books which consolidate the Garrett series (another excellent series). But, these older works, which I read decades ago (and believe are all excellent) have just vanished. If you can grab a copy of this book, do so. I rate it at 5 stars out of 5.

excellent political intrigue story from cook, 4 1/2 stars:
This book is somewhat unique in the books I have read by glen cook. While there are military elements present they are secondary to the story and battles do not play a notable role. The political intrigue, a story of 3 factions interested in control of the city, as well as the goals of the Witch and the infighting in 2 of the factions, one of which at least superficially resembles imperial rome. More generally this book appears to be well informed by classical studies in general and in one particular case it is hard not to think of a certain event in the Punic Wars. Realistic portrayal of characters, believable political goals and machinations, and sympathetic characters from most sides make this a pleasure to read. If you enjoyed The Dragon Never Sleeps or Shadowline, the political violence will seem more muted here but the tapestry he weaves is arguably more complex.

His Best Ever!:
I throughly enjoy Glen Cook's Black Company series and I am just starting book 5, "Dreams of Steel", but I have to say that by far "The Tower of Fear" is his best work that I have read so far. It reads like something from Greek Mythology. If there are any movie producers out there who are looking to make a blockbuster film then you need to contact Cook soon and get the rights to this story. But if you do, PLEASE do it justice and don't make it cheap and cheesy.

Very impressive and well-written plot:
Where many writers stumble in plot, subplot and language, Glen Cook succeeds in all. Springing surprise after surprise, the never-ending twists concoct a convincing and clearly-written storyline. Unlike many other books which I force myself to finish, I awaited with eagerness as the plot slowly unfolded. Would I read it again? Yes, I would.

Suspenseful Fantasy novel:
This is a great, suspenseful, fantasy novel. The best novel Glen Cook has written (except maybe for the Black Company, the novel that begin his 10+ book series).