Just plain delightful--an engaging, witty, marvelously-constructed fantasy, ...
935540
Just plain delightful--an engaging, witty, marvelously-constructed fantasy, anchored by old photographs that appear to document the verity of a very strange tale.  Grabbed Hollow City (the also-marvelous sequel) and read it at one sitting as well.  Can't wait for the third installment!
1829609
You know, sometimes these magicky-whimsical-fairy-tale books can be just a bit too coy, arch and twee for either kid or adult readers. Well, excuuuse me for being a grump, because this book not only pulls off magical whimsy, it sets the bar ridiculously high. It was everything I had hoped for, and more.

The story is deceptively simple. The Wild Conductor wants to trap an Ice Raven and our hero kids go along with him to keep an eye on things and make sure no creatures are harmed in the process. Ultimately, the kids have to fix an unfinished fairy tale and convince the Wild Conductor to do the right thing. There's a lot more and all sorts of clever and engaging side plots and developments, not to mention fantastical settings, but that's the basic idea.

Here's the important part, though, because this isn't really a "plot driven" story. This may be one of the few books I've read in which "magic" actually feels magical, and "fantasy" actually has the dreamy, compelling, and other-worldly ability to take the reader out of himself and to somewhere truly fantastic.

There's a City of Singing Clocks and a Forest of Night and all sorts of magical objects, but the real stars are Harper and the rest of the kid adventurers. Harper always carries a harp and a piccolo flute, (although she can play any instrument). Nate plays a tambourine. Liesel is a violinist, and her brother Ferdie plays the accordion. Wherever they go the kids have their instruments and their music with them, and they often communicate or express their emotions through music. This is presented in such a matter of fact and engaging style that it feels like a perfectly natural way to conduct oneself.

The kids are smart and plucky and big-hearted. Nothing here is dopey or precious. Music and fantasy and adventure are normal and the mellow, poetic narrative sustains and enhances the illusion. This may be the calmest, most laid-back, and yet most carefully shaped and crafted adventure tale I've read. It is fast paced and brief, but that's because just the right words - no more and no less - are used to tell just the right tale. And as a bonus, the drawings are completely in tune with the narrative and illustrate the tale in a quite satisfying and rather charming fashion.

I admit I was a bit taken aback by this book. The level of the vocabulary, the quality of its craftsmanship, the underlying current of good humor and good will, and the poetic but completely accessible feel of the writing just put this in its own category. Let's call it a "literary chapter book".

For what it's worth, this is the third of four Harper books. It appears that you might get a bit more out of them by reading them in order, but this one worked well enough as a standalone. I'd feel comfortable reading them in whatever order I could find them or get them. (These books were all originally published in Great Britain and seem only now to be arriving in the U.S., which is why they may be hard to find.)

(Please note that I received a free advance ecopy of this book without a review requirement, or any influence regarding review content should I choose to post a review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)
2657732
A wonderful book. Meticulously plotted, beautifully written, insightful characterizations, and magically pulled together. This was just a pleasure to read.
3970248
Andrew Peterson has spun an entertaining, humorous and enjoyable tale in "On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness." Apparently this book is based on bedtime stories Peterson told his children--and if that's true, then the sheer imaginative scope and detail of his bedtime stories is astounding indeed!

The main character is Janner, the eldest of the three Igiby children.  Peterson has created a very real boy in Janner, with his combination of bravado and vulnerability, his happinesses and his fears, and he's easy to indentify with and to care about.

On the other hand, the loathsome, disgusting Fangs of Dang--the scaley, venom-dripping lizard-like creatures who rule the conquered land of Skree--are easy to hate.  And yet even they have their humorous moments--as when one Fang commander demands that a servant bring him up a salad, "And make sure the lettuce leaves are brown this time!"  (Not to mention the Fangs' love of maggot-loaf.)

In fact, it's the humor and whimsy woven throughout the story that keep it from taking itself too seriously.  I must admit I loved the frequent foot-notes, which often made me laugh out loud.  Far from being necessary to keep all the places and characters straight, as one reviewer erroneously stated, they're there for sheer enjoyment.

As one reviewer stated, it's no Chronicles of Narnia.  But it *is* a terrific read, laced with some solid values and truths.

While the story ends with a revelation, it doesn't have a resolution, so we're left waiting for the next book in the series.  And I, for one, look forward to the further adventures of the Igiby children.
1604110
On the face of it, this novel seems like little more than a rousing tale of swords and sorcery with a faux-historical sheen. But it's more, and better, than that simple description would indicate.

David Gemmell's Rigante series (at least in the first two volumes) seems akin to the (excellent) fantasy of Guy Gavriel Kay - places from real-life history, re-named and fictionalized, become the settings for epic adventures rich in intrigue, magic, and derring-do.  In this case, we have the Keltoi, a loose confederation of tribal peoples patterned after the Celts, complete with god-like nature spirits called the Seidh (Sidhe), and the city and ever-expanding empire of Stone, patterned after the Roman Republic/Empire. For good measure, he throws in the tree cult, a persecuted religion that meets in secret and preaches peace, love, and harmony, very much like first- and second-century Christians.

And that's where "Midnight Falcon" becomes so gripping and enjoyable. As the Keltoi culture clashes with the culture of Stone, and subcultures within each of those societies clash with each other, Gemmell is able to portray in a fascinating light the eternal struggle between man's innate nature of venality and violence and selfishness, and our ever-present impulse towards something better, more generous and peaceful. The conflict between our nature and our BETTER nature is played out in an oh-so-satisfying manner in the political maneuvering, bloody death bouts, and emotional batterings (intentional and otherwise) in which Gemmell's oh-so-human characters are engaged here.

And there are so many wonderful and important characters. Despite the somewhat misleading description on the book's back-cover, the hot-tempered Bane (the son of "Sword in the Storm"'s main character Connavar) is but one part of this story. We also meet young Banouin, torn between two cultural identities and living too much inside his own head; Rage, a famed gladiator whose nature belies his deadly skills; the surprisingly sweet and funny Persis Albitane and his snarky servant Norwin; the darkly inscrutable Seidh goddess called the Morrigu; and scores of other significant supporting characters.

"Midnight Falcon" is not just some random blood-and-thunder Conan knockoff. It is a layered and infinitely effective portrayal of cultures at war, peopled with memorable and believable characters who live through the crucible in which their characters, and the ideas we all must contemplate but ultimately never can fully resolve, are tested to the fullest. A thoughtful and immersive read, highly recommended.

(I would, however, also highly recommend reading the first Rigante book, "Sword in the Storm," first. While not quite the equal of this second volume, it is definitely enjoyable in its own right, and also provides a valuable introduction to both the Keltoi and Stone without which I think this story would suffer.)
2184371
I devoured this book. Though Im not much of a fan of fantasy or science fiction, the story grabbed me, and Mark Pattons writing enthralled me from page one.  The book provides a perfect antidote to the stress of everyday life, a delightful way to get away from the boredom of reality, and to dig into the fascinating world of what ifs and just maybes.  Patton feeds his readers a good dose of fact amid the fanciful, placing the book into the unique category of historical fantasy, while his wit and imagination places it in the higher echelon of hysterical fantasy.  Patton is a talented writer, who has mastered the dialogue of ghosts and witches, the plot twists one could only find in an English Abbey, and the character development of mortals who have been dead for centuries.  None of this is an easy task.  I look forward to more surprises from this talented author.
4119268
Harbinger is perhaps one of the best books I have read. While it's not quite of the epic scale as the Inheritance Cycle or other fantasy series, I would put it on par with the How to Train Your Dragon films or The Legend of Eli Monpress series by Rachel Aaron. It's relatable, I think, to young and old audiences alike. While it is wholesome enough for kids to enjoy, it is also clever, entertaining, and thoughtful in a way that is appealing to me as an adult.

Every sentence is jammed with whit, personality, and charm. The characters are delightful and relatable, maintaining a balance between quirky and realistic. The tone of the novel is overall light--a fun ride--but at times left me aching with sympathy for Kael's plight. Shea Ford has skillfully portrayed the awkward, caring, book-loving mind of our hero, as well as the minds of other, lesser characters as their perspectives appear; even those who only narrate no more than one or two chapters feel fully fleshed out, like they could have stories of their own.

The settings, like everything else, are beautifully described. Shea does a remarkable job playing upon all senses when describing a scene, allowing the reader full immersion into the action. And again, it is all skillfully written within the parameters of what the point of view character--Kael or whoever--would feel or notice. Just another testament to Shea's ability as a storyteller and a writer.

The magic system is well developed, though I would have enjoyed reading more of how this particular, unique form of magic FEELS: the sensations and mental processes that accompany each different encounter. This is explained in beautiful detail, true, at the beginning of the story, but I found it fascinating enough to want to read it again for other situations. I also appreciate how the various forms of magic are not explained in lectures. So often, the inevitable lectures drag on, and are tactless and tedious. But in Harbinger, magic in it's various forms unfolds very naturally. It is introduced in a way that is immediately intriguing, while not surpassing the character's own understanding of it. The "time of teaching" was also enjoyable, I found, not dwelling on the subject too long, while still expanding our knowledge of the powers at play. I am excited to see what wonders are wrought in future books!
(See what I did there? Pun intended;))

Again, an excellent read! Well written in all aspects, with an endearing cast, picturesque descriptions, and a poetic yet easy voice. I would definitely say Harbinger (Fate's Forsaken: Book 1) is well worth your time! I look forward to following Kael, Kyleigh, and the rest of the characters' journeys through the remaining three books.

Happy reading!
-Bekah Terrell
4827638
A delightful tale of intrigue and magic told from the viewpoint of an eight year old boy.  Young Owen is taken to the king's palace as a hostage for his father's good conduct where he finds himself in the very center of treachery and politics where it's difficult to know whom to trust and where the survival of a very shy eight year old looks to be quite unlikely. He finds a trustworthy ally in the Queen's Poisoner, who guides his actions.

The viewpoint of a child makes it easy for the reader to learn about the world and without being overwhelmed by the large number of players and political goals - and far more enjoyable than reading through long explanatory texts.  And Owen is a very likeable protagonist; it's so easy to sympathize with his difficulty speaking to adults and cheer when he demonstrates the sort of bravery that is rarely part of fantasy novels.  Characters are complex; the "bad guys" aren't all bad and even have reasons for their evil.  And the good guys aren't all good; so that the readers aren't always certain who's who... rather like young Owen.

The writing craft is outstanding from grammar and mechanics to pacing and story building. Characters are both memorable and complex.  I thoroughly enjoyed the tale from start to finish.  If you like fantasy, you'll love the Queen's Poisoner; If you simply enjoy a quiet way to spend a few hours, you won't regret spending it on this tale.

I can hardly wait for the next book and will be seeking other tales by this author.
4082171
I've just spent the past couple of days discovering a whole new world of fantasy creatures and tales (many from Russian traditions). And what a fabulously entertaining time it's been. Amy's debut novel has kept me wrapt right up to the last sentence... and now I am left waiting with bated breath for the next installment.

While it could be argued that the plot is fairly typical of the genre, (unsuspecting, but uber-powerful heroine must undergo a baptism of fire to save the world), the team of characters being recruited as fellow-protectors / saviours, and the tales and backgrounds from which these characters are drawn, give a refreshingly different look to the plotline.

The sheer variety of supernatural beings, all in one place, could have been rather messy, but it all seems to work brilliantly. Shape Shifters, Death Spirits, Gods, Supernatural hunters / warriors, Firebirds, Fairytale Heroes - there's something for everyone. As an Ozzie, it's got to be a first to find an Australian supernatural thrown into the mix!! And who knew a Thanatos could be so kick-ass!!

It is the characterisation of the various 'Supes' that ensures the novel doesn't get too cheesy or bogged down. One of my favourite aspects of the book is the strong, confident personality of each and every character (no wussy whimsical Damsels in Distress in this tale!!) All have a strength of character which makes the interactions and conversations entertaining to say the least. I admit I laughed out loud several times at the antics, arguments, and personality clashes involved when several 'dominants' are forced into close proximity. Izrayl especially, had me alternating between laughing hysterically, and swooning with passionate imagination. I always knew I was a 'dog' person for a reason.

I have to admit I like a little romance mixed in with my fantasy, and this book also meets this desire... though again, not really in the typically formulaic method. Although we are faced with the original resistance to the various pairings (with some original name-calling, entertaining insults, and full-on combat scenes)... it doesn't drag out for several chapters; The characters are generally fairly quick to realise who/what they belong with, and the relationships progress without the usual dithering.

Fantastic debut novel; extremely entertaining, and can't wait to find out what happens in the next exciting episode.
1402104
Whimsical and enchanting are the best words to describe this absolutely delightful book! There is no Snow White, nor 7 dwarfs, but instead a cast of 8 extremely adorable children on a most precarious mission. This is a magical fantasy that envelopes the reader and holds tight to the very end! Although recommended for young to middle graders, my middle-aged self  was  intertwined and thoroughly engaged till the very end as the author led me on quite the wonderous journey! In my own opinion..I'm waiting for the movie..it's that fantastical!!
156915
What a wonderful world(s) Ms. Hull has created! I love anything to do with dragons, so I was instantly swept up in the adventure from the gate. I loved Kryling! Such an adorable companion. It was an excellent treatment of the lengths jealousy and hatred can send people. And who hasn't had a childhood love turned sour? In this case, the two combine to send the hero out into a fast-paced quest for justification. The imagination in creating the worlds is impressive and the layers are complex. I recommend this book for anyone who likes well-constructed high fantasy defined by strong characters.
68015
A marvelous epic sure to enthrall you and draw you in with its eclectic cast of characters. I really enjoyed The Lore Anthology - fantastic read. The author uses languages in a delightfully musical way to build an usual but engrossing world. This is a fabulous epic that fantasy lovers will revel in.
1380262
Honestly I picked the book up as a gaff, but to anyone who's been the isolated witty introvert into fantasy, the first person voice of Corin will fit your brain like a glove. Between the involved magic system, bits of mystery, and smatterings of rich characterization that leave you wanting more - I found it delightful, and I'm hungry for the next one.
1368978
I have greatly enjoyed various tales of Roger Zelazny -- and, "The Great Book of Amber" presents the greatest of them -- in my experience. This decade of novellas presents the singular fantastic adventures of singular personas. The first five novellas are written via the point-of-view of Corwin, Prince of Amber -- and the later five novellas are written via the point-of-view of Merlin, Prince of Chaos [and Corwin's son]. There are also a few additional tales in "Manna from Heaven" as well -- but, "The Great Book of Amber" contains the main ones.

Roger Zelazny writes vividly about vivid characters undergoing vivid adventure in sharply dramatic, sparklingly colorful, humorously witty and mythically fantastic quests to survive and succeed in style. "The Great Book of Amber" is at once a work with aspects that are modern-adult and medieval-fantasy and multi-universal -- with uniguely wonderful meta-humans, meta-magics and meta-physics. So, we have Sword-and-Sorcery Sci-Fi that can, in a fun and fine style, intensely Inspire +++
2197618
McKillip fans will enjoy the deftly interwoven elements of fairy tale, sorcery and reality. Fantasy fans will love the complex plot and large cast of characters, the thinly veiled allusions to present day struggles between politics and religion, and the humorous balance of knightly rituals and modern technology. But it is the student and scholar of Arthurian legends who will enjoy this novel's richness the most. It was like diving into a mystery in the midst of a truly engaging fantasy novel. I was constantly puzzling through what elements of grail legend were being alluded to and who various characters represented. Don't get me wrong. This is no simple reselling of the quest for the Holy Grail. This is a wholly original story. But the hints and allusions to that ancient legend make a good fantasy novel truly great.
2685634
The Accidental Apprentice is a fantastic fantasy novel, filled with  a fractured kingdom, political intrigue, action, and a distinct magikal style all it's own. The characters are rich and memorable, with many laugh out loud moments. The book is written from the viewpoint of several characters, one of which is the antagonist. It's fun to see inside the head and understand the twisted machinations and rationalizations of a villain. I really enjoyed diving into the world of Havensgate. It was a non-stop read for me, I couldn't put it down! I can't wait to see where this story goes next when I read the (hinted at on her author's Facebook page) sequel!! There's so much left in store for our favorite magicians and of course their countrymen! PS I'm so Team Crispin!!
1041932
An engaging and enjoyable read that you'll not want to put down, fantasy at it's best.