Heroes Die: A Fantasy Novel (The Acts of Caine)

I really liked the idea of the book. The storyline had lots of potential. The comparisons between worlds were striking. I found the way the story was carried out to be a little ham fisted and the ending was heavy handed as well. I won't be reading the rest of the books because honestly, I can get more bang for my fantasy buck. Not a bad book, but over priced. Caine could be an interesting character study, but his change moved too quickly.

The author starts strong. And the World he creates is interesting. The "echo" world is a good concept.
However, as the book progresses, the book quickly loses my interest.
Too many attempts to make social points, and the main villains are too susceptible(stupid)(gullible) in
falling for Caine's maneuvers. Should have made Caine more lethal, and let him accomplish more with his own stealth and prowess rather than rely on the stupidity of his enemies.

Caine's obsession with his wife, while not unrealistic, is overdone.

After reading Hero's Die, i am not inclined to read anymore "Caine" novels. But not a bad read.

Caine: the most infamous man in the Ankhanan Empire. A hero who has saved the Empire from invasion and destruction, and a villain who killed the Prince-Regent on the orders of a monastic order. Wherever there is danger, intrigue or violence, there is Caine.

In reality, Caine is a fictional character, played by Henri Michaelson. 23rd Century Earth is linked to Overworld - a post-medieval alternate reality where magic and gods are real - by advanced technology. The rigidly caste-bound population of the overcrowded planet is entertained by the exploits of the Actors, and Caine is one of the most famous Actors on the planet. When Caine's wife, Actor Shanna (who plays Caine's lover, Pallas Rill), disappears on an Adventure, Caine is summoned back into battle. This time the mission is to find his wife before her link to Earth expires, killing her, and to overthrow the monstrous new Emperor. But Michaelson faces hidden enemies on Earth even as Caine faces overwhelming odds on Overworld.

Matt Stover has carved out a reputation as the best writer ever to put pen to paper in the Star Wars franchise, writing a string of intelligent, thought-provoking books that overcome and challenge the limitations of the setting. The Acts of Caine is his most famous own creation, a four-book sequence (more are planned) that mixes SF and fantasy. It is an action-packed series, but also one that is heavily character-driven, and those characters (heroes, villains and the ambiguous alike) are three-dimensional, well-motivated individuals, even the most loathsome of whom is at some level understandable.

Heroes Die is the first book in the sequence, originally published in 1997, but is a stand-alone novel with no cliffhangers or incomplete story arcs. Its publication date precedes the bulk of the modern 'gritty' wave of fantasy novels, but it can be seen as an early example of the subgenre. The book has a black sense of humour that will appeal to fans of Joe Abercrombie, a rich urban atmosphere and cast of thieves that serves as a precursor to Scott Lynch (Lynch has said that Stover's books are one of the primary influences and inspirations behind The Lies of Locke Lamora) and features a dystopian future world that emphasises death and murder as a form of entertainment in a similar manner (but a much more sophisticated one) to The Hunger Games. It's a rich, genre-bending brew that satisfies on all fronts.

The characters are where the book shines. Scenes on Overworld are told from Caine's POV in first-person, but scenes on Earth are related in third-person. Other scenes on Overworld involving other characters are also told in the third-person.This device is quite successful, and is intriguing as Caine's POV scenes also feature his running commentary on what's happening back to the millions of people watching on Earth. Some tension is caused by Caine occasionally thinking things impolitic about life on Earth, causing friction with both the Studio and the future Earth's caste-bound government. Michaelson/Caine is a fascinating character, a man of intelligence who is ready to resort to violence at a moment's notice, but has a reason for doing so. His lover, Senna/Rill is likewise well-depicted, with her idealism contrasted against her lover's pragmatism. Stover even has well-developed villains, making even the monstrous Emperor and the psychopathic swordsman Berne (very briefly) sympathetic with reasons (if only convincing to them) for doing the monstrous things they do.

Heroes Die is unusual for the opening volume of a fantasy series by arriving complete, fully-formed and brimming with confidence and presence. It's an explosive and action-packed novel which explores its premise and characters intelligently, develops the plot and themes with skill and then finishes on a high. Complaints are few: one character gains access to a reservoir of incredible power near the end of the book, which has the whiff of deus ex machina until Stover subverts it.

Heroes Die (*****) is available now in the USA, and in the UK has just been released for the first time as an e-book only edition.

Heroes Die is a gritty and dark science fiction/fantasy novel before its time. This was published before Steven Erikson and Joe Abercrombie and others were popular. A combination of coming out five years earlier than it should have and not so good marketing has resulted in Stover being much less known than he should be. He's a wonderful author who has both great characters and a fantastic story.

Hari Michaelson is an extremely famous actor on a future Earth setting in which corporations have taken control of the governance of the human race by creating a rigid caste system. It is explosive Capitalism as someone's worst nightmare. Acting is no longer done through films. Instead, actors are sent to a medieval magic-filled alternate reality called Overworld. Once there, they are given some sort of mission that usually involves wreaking havoc (like causing a civil war) for the entertainment of civilians back on Earth. When a mission goes wrong for his ex-wife Shanna, Hari is called back to Ankhana to go save her. As his alternate identity of Caine, he realizes he's in the deep end as he will have to go through a God to save her.

Stover's greatest strength is his characters. Hari/Caine is a very unlikable person on the surface, but I still ended up rooting for him as the story moved along. The guy is miserable and seems to hate everyone he meets. What really drives the story forward is that he still loves Shanna, despite the fact she wants nothing to do with him. Their relationship is the core of the story, and its unconventional unveiling makes it that much more interesting. At the same time, the God Ma'elKoth comes across as really quite likable. He's an antagonist merely by circumstance. Perhaps in any other novel, Caine would be the bad guy and Ma'elKoth the hero. The only truly evil character is Berne, who makes for a great character to hate. Stover's actions scenes (while at times too detailed) are trilling and brutal. Characters get injured and killed, and a few characters really get pulled through the ringer. One in particular I felt bad for as he seemed to have the worst luck of being capture, tortured, and manhandled time and time again.

There aren't many criticisms I can point out. Stover's writing is dramatic, yet fits well within the story. It might take a little while for readers to really figure out how the world works. There were also times when the language and perspective of Caine got to be a little too much. Sometimes it came across as if nobody was likable at all, though I understand why Stover went this route. To do it any other way wouldn't be right, as the harshness is a big part of Caine's character. If you aren't a fan of bad language, then this is not the novel for you. Also the conclusion was a bit too short for my liking, but that's more of a personal preference than anything.

While this is the first novel of a four novel sequence, it does stand by itself. Stover is a great novelist who really came before his time. It is darker and more brutal than any other novel I have read to date (including Erikson and Abercrombie). All the plot threads come together nicely and are concluded in a satisfactory manner. Stover is especially at his best during the climax. There is a scene or two where you can just tell that he wrote the novel for *that* reason. Packed with emotion, character, and plot, not a single page is wasted in the incredible story. Very close to a perfect rating.

4.5/5

A lot of readers nowadays will eat up Harry Potter but won't touch the fantasy genre otherwise, harboring a healthy aversion to "elves, dwarves, dragons." It's an unfortunate stigma because there's a lot of books in science fiction and fantasy (SFF) written for adults and contains content and themes suitable for adults. That is, SFF books adults can enjoy and don't have to be ashamed of reading.

Matthew Woodring Stover authors SFF a lot of us can enjoy. Deliciously arrogant about his views and books, author Matt Stover espouses mature content and themes. Not to mention fun reading.

Thankfully, Matt's Caine books are standalone novels, and you don't have to read a host of books just for the sake of continuing the overall story arc. Chronologically, HEROES DIE comes first, BLADE OF TYSHALLE second, but they're independent stories and only familiar characters connects the two.

Here's a brief review of HEROES DIE:

There's something really powerful and poignant about an old-fashioned struggle for love. At this book's core, we find the quintessential and ageless strife for love. Needless to say, HEROES DIE was a vastly immersing, engaging and enjoyable reading experience for me.

The science fiction/fantasy worlds of HEROES DIE manage to completely blur our idea of right and wrong & good and evil. At times, I find myself pitted against our protagonists, just beginning to understand the death and destruction they cause. At other times, I find myself behind his or her actions. No matter the reader's position or the storyline backdrop, you will always find yourself feeling something. As one of the mad characters mentions in the story, "Anything that is done out love takes place beyond good and evil..."

And trust me, there is never a dull moment. Stover packs every page with action and fervor. With a finale that had me shaking and unable to stop reading until I finished the book, I found myself riveted throughout.

Anti-hero Caine is an assassin in the gritty fantasy world of Overworld; Caine is notorious for killing many key figures in Overworld, kings and innocent commoners alike. Back on a futuristic Earth plagued by rigid social hierarchies dependent on affluence, Caine is Hari Michaelson. Actors such as Hari portal into the fantasy world of Overworld and incite death, destruction and chaos, all for the entertainment of the masses back on futuristic Earth. Overworld is real though, and not some virtual concoction so the people killed back on Overworld represent brutal finality. When the story begins, we're introduced to a bitter Hari estranged from his wife and wanting nothing more than to have her back. His wife Shanna plays the powerful sorceress Pallas Ril in Overworld.

I think the best way to describe Stover's writing: a fantasy romp. Gritty, realistic, and thoroughly entertaining.

I first discovered Heroes Die when I was growing up, and just starting to get tired of mainstream fantasy stories like Shannara. Heroes Die was a breath of fresh air for me. Heroes Die focuses on the character Hari Michaelson, an actor living in a dystopian Earth set in the future. The world is split into a caste system, and it is hands down one of the darkest dystopian settings I've ever read. However, the technology has been invented that allows people to transition into an alternate universe version of Earth where dragons, elves, and all manner of fantastical creatures still exist. In this world, Hari Michaelson is the assassin Caine, whose exploits are filmed and distributed to an audience on Earth.

The thing that stands out about this setting is that Stover keeps most of the stock fantasy characters and tropes, such as magic, elves, dwarves, and dragons, while bringing them alive in ways that most fantasy authors never manage. The characters and situations are utterly real, and he never descends into common Tolkein style floweriness. There are no heroes, or wise wizards in this story because, as the title implies, heroes don't survive. The book is dark, gritty, and incredibly visceral. The main character, Caine, is a murderer, callous and cruel, with enough humanity and dark humor to still make you cheer for him. I'd recommend this to any fan of the fantasy genre looking for something a little different, although I'd be quick to caution that the violence is extreme, and not to be undertaken lightly.

This novel is a fantasy book wrapped inside a science fiction book. In the future humanity has perfected the technology of transferring individuals between different realities. They put this new ability to work transferring actors to "Overworld". Overworld exists in a fantasy universe where the laws of nature are different; magic is possible, elves and ogres exist, and humans can transform themselves into Gods. The experiences of the humans sent from our world to Overworld are beamed back to Earth for people to experience as entertainment.

Hari Michaelson is the most famous working actor. When beamed to Overworld he becomes Caine, a renowned assassin. Hari is married to another actor, Shanna Leighton, who becomes a powerful magician with a heart of gold on Overworld. They are going through a separation on Earth, and Hari learns that she is in mortal danger on Overworld. So begins Caine's adventure: he must travel to Overworld and find his estranged wife and save her from the danger presented by a new emperor cementing power by waging a campaign against actors.

This book suffers from a few flaws. First, the main character's overwhelming obsession with his estranged wife is difficult to swallow. His wife has been having an affair with another actor who's a total loser, but this doesn't deter Caine's feelings for her at all. He rejects other women because he's still so obsessed with her. Okay for a 300 pound balding computer programmer like myself, perhaps, but a little wishy-washy for a magical universe's most ruthless assassin. Second, we generally learn just how deadly and renowned Caine is from other characters who universally view him as deadly and renowned. Instead of just hearing from ten different characters that Caine is the deadliest assassin on Overworld, why not have him do something that cements that status? Caine actually kind of gets his butt handed to him repeatedly by other characters throughout the novel. Third, the rules of both societies are explained poorly. The author uses the muddiness of the social and universal laws to invent ghosts in the machine that helpfully pull the protagonists out of the fire. Overwhelmed by a 7' tall man-God in close combat? Why not just meld your Flow with the God of the River? Fourth, the fight scenes are somewhat stiff and not that compelling.

Don't let these criticisms get you down. This book is, mostly, interesting and enjoyable. Some lapses are no doubt the result of taking on such an ambitious world-building project; the author is simultaneously creating not one but two new universes. 3.8/5 stars.

WOW!!
I just finished readin an advance copy of this book (thanks to Coosin Al- a definite Hero). The setting of the book flips between a fantasy setting, and a harsh look at the future of humans on Earth. Both settings were blandly generic though a few original twists and ideas have been thrown in.
The compelling points of the book did not involve the setting. However the characters have been carefully formed and well rounded, and more importantly- realistic. Even the supporting characters have a suprising depth to them, with their own beliefs, desires and plots.
"Heroes Die" (listed here in the store as "Caine") is a masterfully built book. A story within a story, independant plots and intrigues are woven together for a believable resolution. Romance, grim humor, blood and death thread themselves through the story, creating a complex pattern that will delight and enthrall the Reader.
Matthew Woodring Stover has brought us a book with something for everyone. The story is compelling, and the characters will hook themselves into your heart as you find yourself fighting with the main character against all odds.
If you want to read an epic adventure that leaves you wanting more, give this masterpiece by Stover a try. This is the first novel I have read by Stover, and I am now planning on going back and reading his prior novels, "Iron Dawn" and "Jericho Moon."

Greek tragedies, martial arts, hard-boiled murder mysteries, philosophy, Stephen R. Donaldson and more: the very substratum that celebrates a myriad of written forms of entertainment (among other things) that makes up a lot of the volume of this novel reminds me of the celebration of film that is the original Star Wars trilogy. Mix in compelling characters, a very enjoyable fantasy city -- and how many fantasy authors can hold the fascination of the reader with just a single city instead of having to create a sweeping epic of clashing kingdoms and entire continents or worlds? -- and some of the most well-portrayed female heroines (and one of the greatest elf characters ever) that I've encountered.

I don't particularly dig the Earth politics, but that's about the only complaint I have, and it sure hasn't stopped me from reading it five times over. It's a fantastic novel, plain and simple.

But then again, maybe not. Matthew Stover is using the mercenary anti-hero to explore social and existential issues that Glen Cook so far has proven for the most part reluctant to pursue. And Stover's assassin-protagonist---his symbolic role loudly announced by the stage name Caine---is a conflicted character that grows in ways that Cook's cast never achieves, the players and worlds here a vehicle that blurs and pushes the boundaries of the genre, despite the similarities of fast-paced action and gritty milieu, taking this novel to a creative and darkly realized realm that by comparison is metaphorically dizzying. Few unexamined moments here, and despite the almost non-stop, grim and graphic pull of conflict and action, there's a lot more going on here than simple combat and hack and slash adventure.
As has been noted elsewhere, Caine is an Actor who actually lives his role, a resident of some human future in which, creatively recontextualizing and extending earlier ideas contained in works such as "The Running Man" or the film "Rollerball," and topically reflected in the current popularity of so-called "reality" television such as "Survivor," residents live out fantasy adventures on the parallel and magically endowed world of Ankhana vicariously through virtual reality adventures of a star-system transported to a largely medieval realm. Despite the obvious entertainment value for the audience of experiencing another world instantaneously through the eyes, experiences and actions of the Actors, there is a dark side to this theater verite, a blurring of imagination and reality in which outside, invisible and largely commercially indifferent interests are controlling both the players and the set, somewhat analogous to the projected introduction of the 60's television series, "The Outer Limits." Everyone involved become just puppets in a ratings driven play, the sale of virtual adventures determining the action as well as the experiences of both participants and audience. The ultimate vision, instead of invigorating is chilling, revealing a dark and disturbing mirror onto our own potential escape into entertainment, which in part even the reading of fantasy has become. The author is directing his social criticism and commentary not only at our own entertainment industry, but in many ways at the genre itself.
This is at once ironically entertaining as well as thought-provoking, the title of this novel itself hinting at the author's desire to debunk not only the human illusion of the heroic reflected over and over in movies and television, but the conventions of high fantasy itself. This is in part an examination of escapism, while at the same time a dark examination of society and an exploration of more existential and philosophical issues disguised within the garb of heroic fantasy. As an earlier reviewer has noted, the author does not always take these explorations to a full or satisfying conclusion, at times hinting at ideas to come that never actually arrive. Nonetheless, the author is to be applauded for exploring ideas and topics not usually found in the typical fantasy, bringing to the genre a conceptual weight and substance usually found lacking. This is not your usual quest or tale of magic: the author's aims are far more literary and complex.
I was referred to this novel by a new column offered on the sfsite, contributed by Gabriel Chouinard. This column is being used to present readers with works written by what the columnist calls "The Next Wave," a reference to writers such as Michael Moorcock, Philip Jose Farmer, and Philip K. Dick that were hailed in the 60's and 70's as the "New Wave" for their creative and often revolutionary impact upon the stale tropes coming out of 50's speculative fiction. Whether one agrees with Mr. Chouinard's opinions or not---I personally continue to enjoy the better offerings of high fantasy, despite its well-worn conventions---his column offers recommendations of newer and significant authors whose work is less well-known, and whose aims are well beyond that of the epic, more conventional doorstopper fantasy of Jordan or George R.R. Martin. These newer authors, such as Matt Stover, Michael Swanwick, Paul Witcover, to name a few, or especially, in my opinion, China Mieville, should be on the reading lists of anyone seriously interested in speculative fiction, regardless of their personal tastes or preferences. Mr. Chouinard's column offers an excellent reference and discussion.
While "Heroes Die" is written as a stand-alone, I have noted that a sequel has been released, "The Blade of Tyshalle." I for one certainly intend to read it in the near future.

But then again, maybe not. Matthew Stover is using the mercenary anti-hero to explore social and existential issues that Glen Cook so far has proven for the most part reluctant to pursue. And Stover's assassin-protagonist---his symbolic role loudly announced by the stage name Caine---is a conflicted character that grows in ways that Cook's cast never achieves, the players and worlds here a vehicle that blurs and pushes the boundaries of the genre, despite the similarities of fast-paced action and gritty milieu, taking this novel to a creative and darkly realized realm that by comparison is metaphorically dizzying. Few unexamined moments here, and despite the almost non-stop, grim and graphic pull of conflict and action, there's a lot more going on here than simple combat and hack and slash adventure.
As has been noted elsewhere, Caine is an Actor who actually lives his role, a resident of some human future in which, creatively recontextualizing and extending earlier ideas contained in works such as "The Running Man" or the film "Rollerball," and topically reflected in the current popularity of so-called "reality" television such as "Survivor," residents live out fantasy adventures on the parallel and magically endowed world of Ankhana vicariously through virtual reality adventures of a star-system transported to a largely medieval realm. Despite the obvious entertainment value for the audience of experiencing another world instantaneously through the eyes, experiences and actions of the Actors, there is a dark side to this theater verite, a blurring of imagination and reality in which outside, invisible and largely commercially indifferent interests are controlling both the players and the set, somewhat analogous to the projected introduction of the 60's television series, "The Outer Limits." Everyone involved become just puppets in a ratings driven play, the sale of virtual adventures determining the action as well as the experiences of both participants and audience. The ultimate vision, instead of invigorating is chilling, revealing a dark and disturbing mirror onto our own potential escape into entertainment, which in part even the reading of fantasy has become. The author is directing his social criticism and commentary not only at our own entertainment industry, but in many ways at the genre itself.
This is at once ironically entertaining as well as thought-provoking, the title of this novel itself hinting at the author's desire to debunk not only the human illusion of the heroic reflected over and over in movies and television, but the conventions of high fantasy itself. This is in part an examination of escapism, while at the same time a dark examination of society and an exploration of more existential and philosophical issues disguised within the garb of heroic fantasy. As an earlier reviewer has noted, the author does not always take these explorations to a full or satisfying conclusion, at times hinting at ideas to come that never actually arrive. Nonetheless, the author is to be applauded for exploring ideas and topics not usually found in the typical fantasy, bringing to the genre a conceptual weight and substance usually found lacking. This is not your usual quest or tale of magic: the author's aims are far more literary and complex.
I was referred to this novel by a new column offered on the sfsite, contributed by Gabriel Chouinard. This column is being used to present readers with works written by what the columnist calls "The Next Wave," a reference to writers such as Michael Moorcock, Philip Jose Farmer, and Philip K. Dick that were hailed in the 60's and 70's as the "New Wave" for their creative and often revolutionary impact upon the stale tropes coming out of 50's speculative fiction. Whether one agrees with Mr. Chouinard's opinions or not---I personally continue to enjoy the better offerings of high fantasy, despite its well-worn conventions---his column offers recommendations of newer and significant authors whose work is less well-known, and whose aims are well beyond that of the epic, more conventional doorstopper fantasy of Jordan or George R.R. Martin. These newer authors, such as Matt Stover, Michael Swanwick, Paul Witcover, to name a few, or especially, in my opinion, China Mieville, should be on the reading lists of anyone seriously interested in speculative fiction, regardless of their personal tastes or preferences. Mr. Chouinard's column offers an excellent reference and discussion.
While "Heroes Die" is written as a stand-alone, I have noted that a sequel has been released, "The Blade of Tyshalle." I for one certainly intend to read it in the near future.

WOW!... I read the novel and was totally blown away from the very beginning and it just got better and better! Hari Michaelson is an actor of the future who is transported along with a few other actors, including his wife, to another world and or dimension called OVERWORLD. Here in this fantasy-filled world the actors go on ADVENTURES that are followed back on earth by the populace by virtual reality-based technology. The whole book reminded me of the Matrix but in a fantasy set world. This would make a blockbuster movie idea by the way since this is a mix of sci-fi and fantasy with a writer who has written an excellent and thought-provoking idea that readers will love due to its great characters both good and bad, (and inbetween). The god emperor MA'EL-KOTH, the giant who rules in this fantasy land is a very interesting character and you just can't wait to see what he will do next. Hari Michaelson aka Caine in Overworld is such a rich and engaging character in both worlds is just a plus in this extravaganza of a novel. This si definately a one of a kind, ground-breaking read in both the sci-fi and or fantasy realm. Please do yourself a favor and get this book to read - you won't be sorry!

Matthew Stover is gaining a reputation as a solid, though- provoking storyteller/novelist/ writer, which is perhaps why Lucasfilms has tapped him to pen a novel in their sprawling NEW JEDI ORDER saga.
HEROES DIE exemplifies what a committed, driven writer can do when he puts his mind to it. Few novels I have read have left me in such a sense of awe after reading them. You can read the above reviews for a sense of what this story is about, but I'll tell you why this novel, rather this piece of LITERATURE is so great.
This book exemplifies everything that can be done within the genre of speculative fiction. That is, expand our perception and make us think (speculate) about our place in the world. The world of Overworld may, at the outset, touch a chord of fantasy familiarity, but as we see Caine move through this land, our perception is expanded beyond what we initially think we see. As we see Hari/Caine bear down, inch towards sunlight despite what is thrown at him, we see how his place in the world is threatened and indeed speculate about our place in the world.
Stover takes many fantasy archetypes and turns them on their rears. Many fantasies have magic, this has magic, in critical mass, and the magic has definite consequences and repercussions. Many fantasies involve characters pitted against each other, with conflicting agendas. Again, you'll find this here as well, though at times you may question which agenda you would subscribe to more easily those of Hari or his adversary Ma'elKoth. Many fantasy novels have Heroes that epitomize some type of "good" and do not give up--don't worry, the hero here, Hari Michaelson, is just that. Though his "good" may not be exactly in line with preconceived notions of good. Hari/Caine ultimately, is something that many people can identify with, despite some of what he does in the novel-a person committed to his beliefs and through labyrinths both of his own creation and of external creation, committed to two things we can all identify with, committed to himself and the love of his life. He inches toward daylight in the dark tunnel, believing in himself striving for his goals.
What Stover has done in this spectacular novel is take these storytelling elements and turns up way beyond 10. The characters are some of the most believable you will come across, the action/fighting is the most intense and realistic-there's reason, Stover himself is trained and experienced in the martial arts.
Stover is an unrelenting writer, with each turn of the page, he entertains, challenges you to think and begs you to turn the page with this novel. Caine is unrelenting, he does not give up and is a hero through everything.
When a writer can create a "villain", or more to the point an adversary for their hero that you actually can empathize with and almost admire, then he has done a exemplary job of characterization.
As great as this novel is, as intense as these characters come across, Stover exceeds himself in the sequel BLADE OF TYSHALLE.
If you are tired of some of the paint-by-numbers fantasies that seem to take up the bestseller lists and shelves of your local bookstore, if you want a well crafted, piece of ENTERTAINING, PROVOCATIVE, INSPIRING, fiction and LITERATURE, buy this book and read it. And read it again. After that, tell your friends to buy the book.

If you hear that something is kickass and you immediately are on some level intrigued, then this is your book. Not only does this literature offer thought provocation, it also offers a new style to violence. To say the least, this book is not for the feint of heart. This book is not for someone wanting a knight in shining armor. This book is for those who want characters with flaws, faults, strengths and conviction in no given order. Maybe you'll relate with your perceived bad guy, maybe you'll relate with the good guy. Regardless no one is perfect but Caine will get the point across to you one way or another.

I have had the greatest privilege of knowing "Sir Stover" or "EncycloStover" (as we fondly referred to him in our misspent youth) since 1981. While most people hold out to the universe the arrogance of youth, as no one other than the young can... few could back that arrogance up with a brilliance and genius that Stover did. Intimidating it putting it quite mildly.

I had the good fortune to be there at the beginning of the masterpiece that would finally become known as The Acts of Caine. Over many years I read a draft or chapter here and there and couldn't wait for more. Finally one day, long before the instant communication of the internet, we rec'd a call... Heroes Die was published!

Much to most of our amazement, the cover artist (unknowingly) captured Matthew as Caine to a tee! I rec'd a copy from Matthew but I also bought the book (seriously, you need to support your favorite authors by actually buying the book!) I read the book in one long marathon sitting. Me... who knew most of the background and story already ... could not put it down. I hated Caine, I loved Caine, I wanted to slap Caine upside the head. But ultimately he is the perfect flawed hero. There is no pretty boy always right good guy in Caine. He is who is is and makes neither apology nor excuses.

That is the brilliance of Caine and by extension, Matthew.

I'm not sure that I can ever quite forgive him for inventing the reality show that is so ubiquitous in our media today... but I guarantee you ... you have never seen a 'reality show' concept as brilliant and before it's time as Ankhana.

Buy the book, get yourself settled in on your favorite chair, with plenty of your beverage of choice, and immerse yourself in Caine's world for the day. You won't regret it.

Heroes Die is an interesting twist on the SciFi meets Fantasy genre. Hari Michaelson is an actor on a future version of Earth where society is split into castes with a very defined hierarchy. The role Hari plays and actually becomes is that of Caine, an ultraviolent mercenary/assassin on the Overworld, which as I understand it is some kind of alternate dimension Earth, with an ancient/Fantasy setting. The character of Harry/Caine is what makes this book shine as he is dealing with many issues throughout the book.
On Overworld the story is pretty much nonstop, hardcore fantasy action with many violent battles and a godlike ruler that Caine must bring down. The futuristic setting is where a lot of the characters motivations are explained through scenes with his imprisoned dad, his wife, and the studio executive that controls Hari's career and his life.
I highly recommend this novel by Matthew Woodring Stover to anyone who likes good fantasy, SciFi, or action/adventure. Be sure to hold on for a wild ride!

Rising above a world of mediocre fantasy & sci-fi, Stover's Caine series obliterated all my previous concerns about how dead-end these genres were becoming. Caine brings--not a breath of fresh air--but a savage gut-punch to the reader's imagination as Stover intertwines both genres in a brilliant world next door to our own dystopian future. And each book just keeps getting better! Also, the combat sequences are very, very well executed and believable in their violence and mayhem. I recommend these books to all my martial arts friends and group Stover with writers like GRRM and Scott Lynch insofar as level of writing is concerned.

I liked the initial idea of two worlds and characters being able to go back and forth between the two. I didn't know all the specifics, but that's what mainly attracted me to this book. The main character is unlike the normal protagonist in a darker sort of way but I loved him. Plenty of bloodshed, intense action, a little torture, and a lot of crazy magic are in here with a plot good enough to earn it a 4 out of 5 stars in my opinion. The main thing that stinks about this series: The next one is so rare that I can't find it cheaper than $25 anywhere! Aside from that, I recommend to sci-fi lovers.

This is one of the best stand alone fantasy novels I have ever read. Descriptions as being ultra-violent do this book a huge disservice, and other reviews made me think it was just going to be some mindless bloody slasher book for casual reading. Is it graphic and violent? Yes. Very much so. But the story is remarkably complex for being a single volume. And the blending of Sci-Fi and Fantasy is a done incredibly well and a rare treat. The characters are complex (and interesting), and the plot develops into as intricate a web as any I can recall. I just finished the book, and am on the verge of being depressed that it is over.

... detailed decapitation is bound to be entertaining -- and Stover doesn't disappoint. Being the first book I've read by this author, I was skeptical because I had never heard of him, and to be quite honest, I found the cover art quite unappealing for some reason. However, I had fun shaping a far different view of the protagonist, Hari (Caine), in my mind, and thoroughly enjoyed his whirlwind kingdom-toppling ride.
If you're looking for a fast-paced, entertaining book of spirited killing sprinkled with wry humor, I do recommend this one.

Mathew Stover's Heroes Die is a fantastic read for those that like their fantasy fare violent, dark and vaguely obscene. The character of Caine is very much the anti-hero, willing to do or say anything to further his end goal, which is to find and save his wife from a gruesome death. To accomplish this, he will kill everyone who gets in his way, even if it means demolishing two governments in the process. That's another thing, this book is very much a social commentary, punctuated by violence, on the dangers of unchecked corporate hegemony; a vision of our future in which the only government on Earth is a shadowy council of CEO's and Democracy is a dirty word that will land you in jail. While the sequel, Blade of Tyshalle, delves much more deeply into the metaphysical(which is ok by me), Heroes Die is all about the archetypal quest to save the loved one, no matter the cost. Heroes Die gives you bad bad-guys, bad good-guys and really only one good good-guy....and it ain't your main character.

Matthew Woodring Stover is a truly gifted writer. I have read this book several times, and every time take away something more; not just details that I missed the first time around, but layers and levels to his writing that continue to impress me. This book is about the abuse of power by government, big religion and big business; it's about searching for the self among the collective. If you want to read a book that is really about something more than entertainment but still entertaining, and written by an author that has mastered the Language; read this book. You won't be dissappointed.

I've always love books that can cross genres without any efforts.That is why I loved this book! Mr. Stover has created a novel which combines a dark high tech future with tolkeinish fantasy world and spy thriller type action sequences.Our hero has two personas: a actor on ridge caste future earth and lethal assasin on a fantasy world must save his enstranged wife from death against ruthless employers and a brutal emperor.This novel has scenes of brutal hand to hand combat, techological advances,magical battles and plenty of plot twists.So like I said in my title of this review: get ready for ride of your life!

First of all, it is entirely possible to enjoy Heroes Die as nothing more than a thrilling, over-the-top adventure novel. Caine (Actor Hari Michaelson, that'll make sense pretty quickly) is an endlessly enjoyable protagonist and the supporting cast is brilliant. There is also some surprising depth to the book; questions of identity formation and philosophy are there if you know where to look, while a prescient take on what amounts to reality TV is front and center (and way ahead of its time, the book was released in 1998 after all).

One word of warning: this book is not for the faint of heart. Stover has enough martial arts and anatomical knowledge to really give the action scenes punch, but also crunch. If you're not okay with numerous grisly maimings and deaths you should look elsewhere.

I can say, without a trace of doubt, that Matthew Woodring Stover is the best writer I've ever had the pleasure to read, being Heroes Die (and the whole Acts of Caine series) his absolute masterpiece.
Since the very first line, until the last word, this book will take your breath away. Its characters are so charismatic and complex, so full of flaws, you'll sometimes laugh at the fact that in a way this fantasy novel is way more realistic than any other book. As for Caine, the main character, one can't help "loving all of him, even when he has to hate some of him", as Faulkner would say.
Besides, its full of humor as well as philosophy. The author knows how to deal with both tragedy and comedy, at the same time he raises questions that make you think.
To those who love reading adventure books, and to those who simply like reading good books, this is the one. You won't be dissappointed.

This books succeeds as a fantasy novel on so many levels. It juxtaposes a science fiction world not too different from our own, but different enough to keep you invested, with a fantasy world full of swordplay, strange creatures, and magic. It does it in a way that makes sense, and in the main character (in both his persona) a person you can root for even while you strive to understand him and his motivations. Perhaps I should have begun the review by saying that it is a fantastic read: fast-paced, exciting, involving. Perhaps best of all, it's the first book in a series (of 4 so far) and each book gets better!

Heroes Die is a criminally underrated book. If you are a fan of sci-fi at all, you owe it to yourself to read the entire series of Caine novels. It's soon to be released in electronic format, so I can finally stop loaning out this book - which inevitably leads to confrontations when I try to get it back because NOBODY wants to give it back. Ever.

What makes this book (and the series) so good? Easy - It's mayhem for the thinking man - sharp, gritty, and realistic. There's too much about this book and series to love - I could never list it all. Read. This. Book. Now.

It might seem tempting to write this off as another bland SFF novel, but I implore you to read it. The writing is mature, the characters are complex, and it's a whole lot of fun to read; moreover, there are complex ideas here that are worth thinking about. I read this book and it's successors yearly and I'm always finding something new to contemplate. I loved this book as a high school student, but I didn't really appreciate how well crafted it is until a decade later. To be honest, I wouldn't be surprised if I'm even more astonished when it means even more to me another decade from now. If you aren't afraid of a bit of graphic violence and a few big ideas, give it a shot, you won't regret it.

I picked up this book after reading Stover's previous book Jericho Moon, and I have to say this one is even better. More action, more romance, more ideas. Like Jericho Moon, this book can be enjoyed just as a thrill ride, but it has a lot more to offer than just that. It's a real old-fashioned literary adventure, with lots of "literary" to go with all the adventure. It's a long way from Terry Goodkind and Robert Jordan--a long way BETTER.

Heroe's Die is very similar to the 'Adept' series written by Piers Anthony. Two worlds one dominated by technology the other by magic - the key elements that Stover has going as an author are his ability to write a thrilling battle, and the fairly unexpected bonus that his hero 'Caine' does tend to get hurt [although the effects of his being hurt never quite translates into the next battle]. A sequel is quite possible here as questions of ethics and philosophy based on each worlds systems are raised but never quite resolved. If you want a semi-original 'swashbuckling' adventure this is a fine book to read. Its no 'Armor' by John Steakley, but its still a nice read.

An amazing blend of science fiction, fantasy, and no-holds-barred violence. If you like action, adventure, romance, and general badassery then this book is for you!

Stover has a way with words and storytelling that grabs your attention and bitch-slaps it. Switching seamlessly between first person (Caine on Overworld) and third person (Hari on Earth) styles, he creates not just one but distinct worlds that this one character has to exist in, but only one that he belongs in.

Avoid this book if you don't like ass-kicking, sex, violence, and God-killing sons of bitches.

A very entertaining, and enjoyable read, I have already recommended it to fellow readers. Lots of surprising story-line twists, several that threw me for a loop, added to the mental gymnastics the author encouraged in his readers – trying to figure out what could, or might, happen next. This was the first book of Matt’s I have read, and now I am reading his others.

If you like Gemmell or Weeks read this. The characters are gritty and the action is excellent. Unlike many sci-fi or fantasy books there are actually reasons rather than "he is good" or "he is evil". In fact many of the characters are in several shades of grey so it is interesting to see why they do the things they do.

A refreshing change of pace. In the future, man is entertained living the adventures of highly skilled actors that are transported to another world. These actors are in real life or death situations. The most popular actor of them all, Caine by name, is having problems with the management of the entertainment company that owns his contract, his estranged wife (another actor), and very tough going in his adventure. Relax and enjoy the ride.

Heroes Die was a book I purchased years ago after hearing the author wrote great fight scenes heavily informed by his own training. Thank god I did. Not only were the fight scenes great, but they were only topping on an already impressive mix. Mr Stover's writing is incredible. The story, the characters, the gut wrenching emotions cannot be done justice in a short review.

Just read the book. And don't be put off that Hari/Caine can be such a cold-hearted bastard. He is to be sure, but also so much more.

I became aware of Matt Stover from his writing of Star Wars books. Loved them all, and started tracking down his other works. I liked the two Barra novels, but I LOVE Heroes Die. I've probably re-read it 15-20 times. It's a fantastic story with some of the best (detailed, compelling, visceral) fight scenes ever written (probably - I haven't read everything ever written). The Acts of Caine (of which this is the first book) are definitely worth reading over and over again!

This author is very underrated. I always recommend these books right after Joe Abercrombie. Visceral, but with depth. Gritty, but with story. And the humor in it is fantastic! Stover needs way more recognition.

This is an exhilarating read. The plot keeps you on your toes whilst you admire the world fleshed out by Stover. The explosive action sequences and sarcastic commentary are superbly coupled producing a powerful finished product. One of the few books to really nail the science fiction fantasy blend. If you want a fast paced read that you wont put down, you found it.

I actually read that from an interview, but I agree with it completely. Story = amazing. Characters = alive. Pacing, plotting, voice = rock solid and utterly engrossing. Read this when I began martial arts training and it legitimately changed the way I think about many subjects: love, survival, identity, popular culture. An incredible and satisfying book from start to finish.

The fighting in this book is awesome! Unlike most fantasy/SF writers, this guy sounds like he's actually kicked a little butt in his time. His fight scenes are better than Salvatore's! And the plot is astonishing, complicated, but completely logical. An amazing book!

The premise and the action of this book were pretty good. However, the author devoted a lot of time indicating that a great revolution was coming, both in the future world AND in the fantasy world. Yet little of that promise was delivered upon in this book, so it felt more like wasted space. There is a sequel I have not read however, which may follow up on those hints, but this 560-page heavy weight was a little too bloated to make me want to grab that next one.

But let me be clear- It wasn't all bad. I liked the main character and his nemesis, Berne quite a bit. Stover built up their rivalry quite a bit, so that each of their encounters sizzled with electricity. The story was adult in language and mature themes at times, which I appreciated. One of my main problems was how the author repeatedly put the main characters into situations that were impossible to survive from, and you'd read for many pages understanding how screwed they were, but they'd make it out almost every time, fine, in a way that really just felt like a loophole, if that makes sense. Each climax felt a little ridiculous. :/

Anyway... I've got other books to read, and this one was just ok enough for me to finish it.

Awe inspiring action. Vicious and abrupt. His bad guys are crazy, magically endowed but Caine is simply the most focused butt kicker in history. Excellent writing and the best hero ever written. Beset by both enemies foreign and domestic Matt Stover writes a clear, pure path to... not victory but an ending both epic and satisfying.

When Hari Miechlosn is found to Assassinate the King. When His Violence comes to Bring the rise of MaKloth. When the Lovely and Deadly Tallan is difficult to fight. When Karl's sword is not around him. When perhpaps someone is betraying them. They are difficult to detect his teachery. His Transport takes on a Urgency of possible Death. For his Wife Pallas Ril. He transports to Ankhara facing the Greatest Foe of Berne. But can he kill his Greatest Enemy on time to Stop his greater Enemy of MaKloth.

Now this books is what the term "rollicking good fun" was created for. Good bit of blood and guts, great humor and a wild ride make this book something that surprised the hell out of me. I highly recommend it!

Absolutely great book. Couldn't think of a stronger opening for the Caine series. I loved every last diabolical twist in this book. It's gritty and violent and awesome. We need more heroes like Caine in the literary world. He's like The Punisher with more knives.

This book is so unlike Stovers other stuff. The plot while fantastic is made believable by the convincing characters. Caine would make a great series subject. His cynical, bloody, and sometimes fatalistic outlook makes the reader root for him even when he's gone blood simple and just wants to kill somebody. Read this book, its great!

Heroes Die is harsh, creative, and beautiful. Caine will become a new character that you carry with you in your daily life, referencing his dark monologues and envisioning the poetic violence he inflicts upon his adversaries, his companions, and himself.