Rating: 5
Inspired by the same works that influenced Tolkien, this beautiful novel is the first in the Books of Pellinor quartet based in the lands of Edil-Amarandh.
Maerad is a young woman rescued from slavery who discovers that she is a Bard with a powerful yet dangerous gift. With the help of her rescuer and teacher, the mysterious Cadvan, a new world opens before Maerad's eyes, along with the truth of her heritage and clues to her extraordinary destiny. Tragedy and betrayal ensues, with an ending that will leave you reaching for the next in the series.
I was totally absorbed by this book and its characters, especially the intriguing Cadvan, with his mysterious past, and the enigmatic Elidhu. The world of the Annaren Bards is complex, full of the political intricacies, back-stabbing and personal agendas that are at the heart of any society. I particularly liked the descriptions of Bardic culture and the importance placed on passion for the arts and a desire for knowledge and wisdom. A fascinating group of characters keep this tale engaging and certainly had me hooked on one of the best fantasy series I have come across.
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3 comments:
I keep nearly buying this series, but I am trying not to buy books at the moment (I know, like that will last). I hadn't seen any reviews yet, but they do sound very cool and just my kind of thing. I am not reading the reviews of the later books in case they spoil the earlier plots.
I just finished this one and LOVED it! What a great start to a series - I can't wait to read the next one. Great review!
Darla - glad you loved this one! This is possibly one of my favourite series, and I'm sad that its all over. Is it wrong to be kinda jealous that you are reading them for the first time!
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