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%T Wyrd Sisters
%A Terry Pratchett
%I ROC
%D June 1990
%O paperback, US$4.95
%P 319
%G 0-451-45012-4
This sixth Discworld novel doesn't quite match the inspired comic madness
of the first 2 (The Colour Of Magic, The Light
Fantastic) but Pratchett is still by far the funniest writer in
contemporary fantasy. In this one, Granny Weatherwax and her coven sisters
take on an evil usurping duke amidst flurries of misfired magic and
Shakespearian allusions -- sort of Macbeth as if scripted by Monty
Python. Enjoy!
%T The Bristling Wood
%A Katharine Kerr
%I Bantam Spectra
%D May 1990
%O paperback, US$4.50.
%P 357
%G 0-553-28581-5
This is Kerr's third book about the Celtic land of Deverry, in which
assorted alliances of nobles and sorcerers scheme to put their candidates on
the throne. Though the concept is as old as the hills, Kerr's attention to
character and setting raise this version above the fantasy-bin average. Other
distinguishing factors include a theory of magic that's physically and
psychologically plausible and the convoluted, generation-spanning,
knotwork-like plot. Unfortunately, the nature of the series plot means that
this book is not independent of the other Deverry books. If this one sounds
interesting, you'd be well advised to read the prequels
Daggerspell and Darkspell first. [This short take
contributed by guest reviewer Cathy Olanich --ESR]
RECEIVED AND NOT REVIEWED:
The Moonbane Mage by Laurie J. Marks.
Flight Of The Raven, Jennifer Roberson.
Throne Of Fools, Adrian Cole.
If I read all the ho-hum series fantasy that floated by I wouldn't bloody have time for anything else!
Up to Eric's Home Page | To Index | Mon Jun 11 16:25:52 EDT 1990 |
Eric S. Raymond <esr@snark.thyrsus.com>