Book review of THE SHIP OF ISHTAR

by A. MERRITT (Author)

Updated at: 03/02/2025

A. Merritt's The Ship of Ishtar, originally serialized in 1924, plunges readers into a vibrant fantasy world where ancient deities, Ishtar and Nergal, wage an eternal war. Archaeologist Kenton finds himself inexplicably drawn into this cosmic conflict, his consciousness tethered precariously to the titular vessel. Merritt masterfully employs evocative language and vivid imagery to transport the reader to a realm of magic and mystery. As Kenton battles for survival against the powerful Klaneth while falling for the enchanting Sharane, his connection to the ship weakens, threatening to banish him back to the mundane world. This precarious link mirrors the reader's own immersion, constantly on the edge of being pulled back to reality. Experience the thrilling clash of ancient powers and a love story amidst a fantastical adventure.

3.7 / 57 ratings

Review THE SHIP OF ISHTAR

Oh, "The Ship of Ishtar"! What a ride! A. Merritt's 1924 classic is a real trip, not just geographically, but temporally too. It's a fascinating blend of swashbuckling adventure and ancient mythology, a pre-Tolkien fantasy that feels refreshingly different from the familiar elves-and-dwarves trope. Instead, we get a clash of Mesopotamian gods, Ishtar and Nergal, their human vessels locked in an eternal struggle, and an ordinary modern archaeologist, Kenton, inexplicably thrust into the heart of it all.

The book's strength lies in its vividly imagined world. Merritt's prose is rich and evocative, painting breathtaking pictures of ancient civilizations, mysterious artifacts, and thrilling battles. The descriptions are so detailed that you can practically smell the incense and feel the heat of the Mesopotamian sun on your skin. The romance between Kenton and Sharane adds a tender counterpoint to the epic scale of the conflict, making the stakes all the more personal. And the ever-present threat of being pulled back to mundane reality, that tenuous connection to the "Ship of Ishtar" itself, keeps the reader constantly on edge. It’s a clever way to heighten the stakes – one moment you’re battling gods, the next you’re back in your New York apartment, wondering if it was all a dream.

However, the book isn't without its quirks. Some readers find the writing style, typical of its era, to be overly ornate or "purple," a sentiment echoed in some of the reviews I've seen. The plot, while exciting, relies somewhat on a deus ex machina here and there, conveniently rescuing Kenton from impossible situations. And the incomplete nature of many editions, a point repeatedly raised, is a frustrating blemish for the serious reader seeking the complete experience of Merritt's original vision. The availability issues mentioned, from accidental Amazon cross-listings to the challenges of finding a complete physical copy, highlight the somewhat frustrating aspect of accessing the true, complete work.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the sheer imaginative power of "The Ship of Ishtar" is undeniable. It’s a thrilling adventure story, full of larger-than-life characters, perilous journeys, and a captivating clash of ancient forces. The book's impact on subsequent authors, specifically the influence cited on Tolkien himself, is a testament to its enduring appeal. The fact that it resonated with readers for decades and continues to find new audiences speaks volumes about its power to transport and enthrall. While modern sensibilities might find some of its elements outdated, it remains a compelling read, a captivating journey into a vibrant and fantastical world that successfully combines action, romance, and the intoxicating allure of ancient mysteries. It’s a book that stays with you, even after you’ve finished the final page, leaving you pondering the enduring power of myth and the eternal struggle between good and evil. Give it a try – you might just find yourself swept away to Mesopotamia!