Bradley's tales of fantasy and adventure on the planet Darkover have quietly and deservedly gained a considerable following. This latest installment [The Shattered Chain] explores an important and heretofore neglected aspect of that feudalistic culture—the role of women…. Although filled with characteristic epic sweep, the present novel is more cerebral, and the Amazons emerge with far more dignity and heroism than their pejorative name implies. As with the others in the series, no knowledge of the previous books is required for enjoyment.