The Werewolves of London

British science fiction writer Stableford, who made quite a splash last year with the U.S. publication of his historical vampire epic The Empire of Fear , here offers a compelling mixture of lycanthropy, sorcery and biblical mythology in a Victorian setting. Bitten by a snake during a visit to Egypt, young David Lydyard, protege of the consummate rationalist Sir Edward Tallentyre, finds himself plagued by bizarre visions. Meanwhile, a young foundling named Gabriel Gill has discovered his own occult powers, and when the infamous sorcerer Jacob Harkender tries to take the boy into his home, Gabriel escapes with the help of Mandorla Soulier, mistress of the legendary werewolves of London, who have their own plans for him. Ancient powers, it seems, are reawakening, and the struggles of these dormant gods may signal the end of the world unless Tallentyre can use Lydyard's mystical connection to one such power (the source of his visions) to prevent disaster. First in a projected series, the novel is rich with period flavor, believable characters, rousing action and fascinating speculation on the essence of reality and the supernatural; Stableford's rationalistic outlook brings an interesting perspective to bear on a story filled with magic, gods and demons. The climax takes a bit long to arrive, but Stableford's thoroughly enjoyable adventure is crafted with intelligence and written in evocative prose. (Dec.)