The second Amber series unfurls much like the first, wrapped in the enigma of a mystery narrative. Merlin embarks on a perilous quest to unmask those plotting his demise, only to uncover a labyrinth of adversaries and intrigue far more complex and sinister than he ever anticipated. The looming danger extends well beyond the confines of his own survival, casting shadows over many realms. In his pursuit of truth, reminiscent of the earlier tales, the protagonist dedicates considerable time to absorbing the narratives of allies, foes, and the unpredictable turncoats between. He sifts through their fragmented and often conflicting accounts, striving to weave them into a cohesive tapestry of understanding. Unlike its predecessor, this sequence shifts focus from epic heroics to the deep currents of magic and the twists of courtly drama.

Zelazny's expansive literary repertoire breathes life into his richly allusive narrative style. The novel teems with echoes from myriad other tales, infusing its core with diverse influences. The name Merlin, evocative and laden with implication, hints at the sorcerer's legendary namesake, yet the extent of Zelazny's use of this Arthurian thread remains tantalizingly uncertain. The work resonates with a sustained nod to Lewis Carroll's whimsical Alice in Wonderland (1865), notably in an extensive dream sequence, perhaps hinting at the novel's own playful and frequently satirical undertones.

Roger Zelazny's primary inspiration is rooted in his inaugural Amber series. Although he weaves in fresh threads, Zelazny predominantly expands upon the tapestry of his established universe. In comparison with Tolkien's Middle Earth or Stephen R. Donaldson's The Land, Amber, Chaos, and Shadow lack the same depth and detail. It's as though, while vibrant action unfolds at center stage, the surrounding scenery consists of mismatched and insubstantial props borrowed from a theater troupe's dusty collection. However, glimmers of deeper exploration shine through, particularly in his recent work, Knight of Shadows (1989), suggesting that Zelazny might yet delve into the profound mysteries of Amber and Chaos. Fans eagerly anticipate this, as Amber's initial allure and thrill have somewhat diminished.

In the second series, another issue arises with Merlin, who pales in comparison to the intriguing Corwin. He lacks Corwin's depth and hard-earned wisdom, and his journey of emotional and psychological evolution remains more speculative than realized. So far, Zelazny appears to be riding on the coattails of past triumphs, albeit in a largely entertaining fashion. As of now, the new Amber tales face the common sequel dilemma: being measured against their predecessors and falling short.