A Knight of Ghosts and Shadows

Quote - A Taste of A Knight of Ghosts and Shadows: Finally, the music faded. Eric sat up with a pang of regret, feeling as though he had just awakened from a long restful night's sleep. The elf was looking at him with those large, emerald cat's eyes, eyes that were darkened with concern.

This cannot be real. Scratch that. It can't be what it looks like. So what would it be if it wasn't what it it looks...

Maureen. She's getting even with me. And she must know a bizillion people over in the studios.

Those ears--

The delicate ears, curving to a graceful point--They have to be fakes, like what those Faire kids all dressed up in wolfskins were wearing last season. Eric wondered if the tips would come off if he pulled on them . . .

"Try it," the creature said in a voice suddenly cold and steel-hard, "and I'll knock you on your backside again, Bard or not."

How did he know--

Summary: Eric Banyon's enjoying his life as a footloose flautist, until it all starts to go wrong. First his girlfriend Maureen breaks up with him, then to make matters worse he accidentally Awakens an elven warrior named Korendil, who seems convinced he's the only one who can save the L.A. elves and has no compunctions about stalking Eric until he agrees to help. Plus, the frizzy-haired freak seems set on stealing Eric's stuff: his cloak, his clothes, even his girl! Being a Bard sure is hard work, especially when nothing's going your way!

Review: I have to admit, I thought this book was hilarious! The character's thoughts were just so real, often silly, especially in the face of danger. The characters themselves were realistic and likable, with the mundane problems of the world we know mixed in with the more magical ones. They were what really held my attention. I read the first three hundred pages just about non-stop because of them, and I was giggling the whole time.

The plot itself was great too. Fast-moving and action-packed, it really holds your attention, from the first page (which starts with Eric's girlfriend screaming at him) to the last (a nice happy ending). The whole idea of elves in the real world, living among us without us suspecting a thing...it just thrills me. The use of music within the story was very convincing as well. I've seen it before, but the entire idea never ceases to amaze me. Plus, if you're looking for romance, it's there in the form of one of those beloved love triangles. I personally was thrilled at the way it was resolved, it's the way I'm always suggesting. And no, I won't tell you which way that would be. You don't want me to ruin the surprise do you? Honestly though, Mercedes Lackey and Ellen Guon have created a great story that really deserves to be read. So go pick it up! (Here's a hint: If you can't find it as A Knight Of Ghosts and Shadows you can always buy Bedlam's Bard, which includes it and the sequel Summoned to Tourney in one handy book)

The Characters - My Analysis:

Eric Banyon

Eric is a major sweetheart, but he hasn't a clue how things should work. He's also way too willing to sacrifice himself for others. I mean, sure that's a good trait, but I've seen characters like him before, and I do so hate crying when they get themselves killed for other people's sakes. He also tends to be quite dense at times, but he's really stubborn. It'd take a lot to change him, but he's definitely worth the time.

Bethany Kentraine

Ah, Bethie. One of those rare female characters that I find I can like with no reservations. She's got all the good sense in the world, plus the humor and belief to match it. She's not afraid to be different, and anyone who's got a problem with that can just stick it where the sun don't shine. Strong, tough, and dependable, that's Bethie.

Korendil

Kory's young by elven standards, but he's got his head on straight. He's a warrior, but he's not too fond of hurting people, which is nice. Like Bethie, he's not afraid to be different, and when he's set on something there's very little that can stand in his way. He's generous as well. Rather than hurt someone he loves he'll hurt himself. Oh, and he's an amateur mage! What more could you ask for?

Perenor

Now this is a cool villain! I mean, he's an elf! Ok, so that's not that great, but what is cool is his ability to reach within people, to take control. Well, that's cool by my standards anyway. He's just a bit psychotic too, which is one of my favorite traits in a villain. Basically, Perenor's main thing is he only considers mortals useful for manipulation and such. Oh, and the fact that the only thing he cares about is his own power. But I still think he's pretty neat!

Ria Llewellyn

Ah, Ria. What to say about her? She's a manipulative b*tch, but she's got that troubled past thing going on that we all so love. She's also Perenor's daughter, and a half elf. She's very powerful, and has a terrifying temper at times, but she's really just a softie at heart.

Prince Terenil

This guy's a real class act. He's a elven prince, and he'll do just about anything for his people. Got that real classic outlook on life, and gets no end of amusement from Eric's fighting tactics. Has a bit of a problem when he's alone though, tends to lose hope and turn to drugs. He's a really great guy though, and he definitely deserves the title of Prince.