3.94
Part of "Ethshar" series
"The Spell of the Black Dagger" by Lawrence Watt-Evans is a captivating tale of magic, adventure, and self-discovery. The story is set in the fictional city of L'Excelsis, where the protagonist, a down-on-his-luck thief named Legolas (not to be confused with the elf of the same name from J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings"), stumbles upon a mysterious black dagger. The dagger is said to possess the power to kill anyone, but its true strength lies in its ability to compel its wielder to speak only the truth. As Legolas navigates the treacherous streets of L'Excelsis, he soon finds himself caught up in a web of intrigue and danger. The dagger's power draws the attention of the city's ruling council, who seek to use it for their own nefarious purposes. Meanwhile, a shadowy figure known only as the "Master" has set his sights on acquiring the dagger for his own sinister plans. Throughout the novel, Watt-Evans expertly weaves together elements of fantasy, mystery, and adventure to create a story that is both thrilling and thought-provoking. The character of Legolas is particularly well-drawn, as he struggles with the consequences of his own actions and the weight of the dagger's power. One of the most compelling aspects of "The Spell of the Black Dagger" is its exploration of the nature of truth and deception. The dagger's power to compel its wielder to speak only the truth raises questions about the nature of truth itself, and whether it is always better to know the truth, even when it is painful or dangerous. Overall, "The Spell of the Black Dagger" is a highly engaging and thought-provoking novel that is sure to appeal to fans of fantasy, mystery, and adventure. Its richly detailed world-building, intricate plot, and complex characters make it a standout addition to any reader's bookshelf...
Joan Vinge
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This novel is a retelling of the story of Saint George and the Dragon, set in the kingdom of Damar. The story follows Aerin, the king's daughter, as she trains as a warrior and sets out to slay a dragon that is terrorizing the kingdom. This book, like 'The Spell of the Black Dagger', features a strong female protagonist and a richly detailed fantasy world.
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