11/09/98
We discover two familiar figures trudging across the desert for reasons yet unknown to us and not quite dressed for the occasion. One, an ever optimistic bard, seeks to rhyme the time away with her partner, seeing hope where maybe there isn't any. The other, a brooding, ever practical warrior, plays "what if" games in her head as she tries to make do with little more than nothing. And then there's the dark shape looming in the distance. Blocking their path. To the warrior, a formidable, ominous enigma challenging her confidence, mocking her ability to protect the most precious gift in her life. To the bard, a tenuous collection of sand which grain by grain threatens to stifle her voice, to suffocate the faith that sustains her as well as the one she loves most in life.
Attack or go around? Stay together or explore alone? Take refuge or risk forging ahead too soon, maybe to an even worse place? Heed Xena's experience or listen to Gabrielle's heart? The bard trusts her feelings, but needs the warrior's acumen and prowess to save her. The warrior needs to poke at and tackle their persistent, shifting foe, yet must have the "feel" of the bard to make the right moves.
Like an hourglass, this brief story evokes those fleeting moments which add up to that one when time seems to stand still, when all the little things one did or didn't do flash by, and everything could end or start anew. It offers a unique glimpse (presumably post Sin Trade) into what makes our heroines and their relationship tick. Masterful in its deceptively straightforward construction, "The Dune" is a suspenseful, multi-textured, wry, and warmly insightful adventure in which the characters, action, dialogue, and setting merge so smoothly that you won't believe you saw so much in such a small measure of time.
Reviewed by IseQween
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This is one of baermer's best efforts, a delightful blending of action, drama, and humor. The Amazons are central to this story and the characterizations are terrific. baermer has come out with a new nickname that rivals 'big dumb warrior' and the interaction between warrior and bard is, as always, top notch. Don't miss this one, you'll be sorry if you do.
reviewed by B L Miller
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(c)March 1998