3.9
"The Innkeeper's Song" by Peter S. Beagle is a rich and immersive fantasy novel that tells the interconnected stories of a diverse cast of characters, all of whom are brought together by fate and the power of music. The innkeeper of the title is a man named Ned, who discovers that he has a special gift for singing, one that allows him to heal the sick and bring hope to the downtrodden. As Ned's story unfolds, we are introduced to other characters who are also struggling to find their place in the world. There is Lal, a young woman who has been cursed with a monstrous appearance, and who longs for acceptance and love. There is also the enigmatic Soothsayer, a mysterious figure who seems to know more than he lets on, and who may hold the key to unlocking the true potential of Ned's gift. One of the strengths of "The Innkeeper's Song" is the way that Beagle weaves together the various storylines, creating a complex and interconnected web of relationships that feels both intimate and epic in scope. The prose is lyrical and evocative, with a strong emphasis on the power of music and storytelling to bring people together and to heal the wounds of the past. At its heart, "The Innkeeper's Song" is a novel about the power of community and the importance of finding one's place in the world. It is a story that celebrates the beauty of the human spirit, even in the face of adversity and hardship. With its memorable characters, rich world-building, and powerful themes, "The Innkeeper's Song" is a must-read for fans of literary fantasy and anyone who loves a well-told story...
Rosemary Kirstein
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