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May 07, 2014
This is my second favorite book. (see Centaur Isle above for the first)It starts out as a simple "rescue the damsel in distress" plot and picks up from there. A naive, young, and headstrong peasant enlists the aid of a legendary warrior, Chareos the Blademaster to help rescue a beautiful peasant girl from slavers. Before you know it, all four of the legendary "Heroes of Bel-azar" have joined in the foolish quest. It is a very realistic take on an old fantasy plot. The author takes on the subjects of fame, honor, love, and glory. There are laughs, shocks, and a twist or two that will keep you interested throughout the entire book. Many of the cultures will be similar to real cultures. (like the Mongols, the Chinese, and Western European) Not for children, I'm afraid. The "realism" comes from very some very mature attitudes and opinions (involving coarse language) as well as some mature situations and mature relationships. It is pretty gritty at times. But that is what makes it so good. All in all, it is one of the best fantasy novels I have ever read.