"A great finale to this saga"

This earth is a lot different than that which contains science fiction readers of popular novels written by authors like L.E. Modesitt, Jr. Here Columbia is one of several nations that have carved out a segment of the North American continent. Columbia is actually what fans of Mr. Modesitt, Jr. would recognize as the eastern United States. In this alternate plane, scientists know how to remove the soul from the living host to create a zombie and that if the soul lingers after the individual dies in distress, a ghost exists.

Columbia desperately needs oil and feel Romanov's Russian Alaska is the solution. As part of a cultural exchange with Russia, Columbia sends critically acclaimed singer Llysette to Russia to perform for the Czar. Llysette's spouse Doktor Johan Eschbach, a professor of Environmental Science, accompanies her ostensibly to provide his beloved wife support, but actually to see what he can do to expedite an oil agreement. A former secret agent, Johan soon finds himself embroiled in stopping a dangerous plot for world domination from happening, one that will use new and very dangerous weapons.

The final novel in the "Ghost" trilogy, GHOST OF THE WHITE NIGHTS, is an engaging entry that focuses on an alternate world. The book wraps up the series nicely though fans will want more novels. The story line is at its best when delving into "modern" weapons systems and ghosts in the machine technology. However, long sidebars on Llysette's tour turn readers into ghostly zombies. Still the audience will enjoy the final tale as L.E. Modesitt, Jr. paints a realm that feels real from a historical and scientific basis.

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted September 28, 2001