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The Castle Perilous series, penned by science fiction and fantasy author John DeChancie, is a delightful and engaging blend of humor, adventure, and magical realism. The series centers around the eponymous Castle Perilous, a mysterious and sentient fortress that exists in multiple dimensions and time periods, and its inhabitants. The first book in the series, Castle Perilous, introduces readers to the castle and its eccentric inhabitants, including a washed-up former superhero, a talking horse, and a host of other magical creatures. The castle's current lord, the amnesiac and bumbling Sir Hawk, must navigate the castle's ever-shifting halls and defend it from a host of interdimensional invaders. In the subsequent books, the series expands to include a wider cast of characters and settings, as Sir Hawk and his companions embark on a series of thrilling and often absurd adventures. From battling Lovecraftian horrors in a haunted house to navigating a surreal and shifting landscape in a quest to find the mythical city of Elsewhere, the Castle Perilous series is a rollercoaster ride of imaginative world-building and witty banter. DeChancie's writing is marked by its wit, intelligence, and self-awareness. He pokes fun at the tropes and cliches of the fantasy genre, while still delivering a satisfying and engaging story. The characters are well-developed and likable, with unique voices and personalities that make them stand out in a crowded field of fantasy archetypes. Overall, the Castle Perilous series is a must-read for fans of fantasy and science fiction. Its imaginative world-building, witty banter, and engaging characters make it a standout in a crowded field of genre fiction. Whether you're a seasoned fantasy reader or new to the genre, the Castle Perilous series is sure to delight and entertain.
Tad Williams
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