Wards of Faerie: The Dark Legacy of Shannara

Wards of Faerie
I will place my review with this, the first book in the series, although I went on to read the second and third books in the series also. The series is aptly named as the "Dark Legacy of Shannara." These volumes are indeed dark. They are even somewhat depressing at times. Most of the lead characters are slain in the books. Quite a few of the characters are very evil, including the Straken Lord, and later Grianne Ormsford, who becomes a new Straken Lord. Stoon, an assassin, is a very evil character. He is made into a very well developed character, but unfortunately is killed off in the second volume, like so many of the lead characters. The monsters are even more frightening than in some of the earlier Shannara novels. Torture or agonizing pain are features of many passages in the novels. Perhaps Brooks is leaning a bit too heavily on the "dark" elements?

I found one interesting inconsistency. In the third, final book of this series, the elfstones are recovered for a time. They are housed in a strong padded box. The box is divided into compartments. Four chambers in this box contain the elfstones. There must be twenty or more of the elfstones, divided into four colors. Railing Ohmsford selects the red stones, removes them from the box, and places them in his pocket. Later, he uses them to save the lives of his small party. BUT, I just reread an earlier Shannara book, The Elf Queen of Shannara. In that book the elfstones play an important role. They are carried by Wren Ohmsford, the book's protagonist. There are ONLY three elfstones. I found this interesting. Clearly Brooks is not rigidly locked into consistency. Well, who cares?

One odd element are the numerous airship crashes. There must be at least five. Each crash leaves the plot in limbo as we attempt to determine which of the characters have survived the crash. I felt this plot element was rather overworked. It almost gets tiresome.

Overall, I enjoyed the series. I know -- as some reviewers have stated -- there are some plot elements that are repeated from the earlier Shannara novels. Asw an example, the renewal of the Elcrys. Even so, this was not a show stopper for me. Brooks does a great job of creating interesting characters, both good and evil. His gift for wonderful descriptions, and his talent for writing a really literate prose style, have not flagged over the years. I highly recommend these novels.

I grew up in a house where I was literally surrounded by sci-fi and fantasy books, so I felt right at home reading this one. WARDS OF FAERIE completely captured my imagination from the very beginning. Complete, exciting and an easy enough to understand story made this an enjoyable read.

First 50 Pages: As with any book set in a completely unique world, it takes a few pages and some conscious effort to get everything straight in your brain. Lucky for the reader, Brooks chooses names and places with familiar letters and sounds. So, it is easy to get lost in the story without having to try and figure out how to pronounce some of the places and characters. WARDS OF FAERIE immediately made me want to keep reading.

There is a story within a story that has to be told, and the way it is presented was just perfect for me. It seems like, nowadays, information that readers need that isn't necessarily part of the main story is told in a prologue. In this book, however, it is told through the diary of a young girl. You get the knowledge, but it is woven into the main story perfectly.

Characters & Plot: Where to begin! Aphenglow, the main protagonist, is strong-willed, curious and determined. I found a lot of myself, or at least who I would like to be, in her character. She is not infallible, but she is strong. She is not perfect, but she believes strongly in right and wrong. She is beautiful, but doesn't depend on her looks to get her where she wants to be. She is fully realized and fully written.

There are a dozen main characters that interact and intersect with Aphenglow's story. Whether it is her sister, her lover, or her fellow Druids, each character is equally important to the story that is being told. One of my favorite characters is not even human; Paranor, the home of the Druids, has a life of its own, becoming more and more throughout the story.

As for plot, we find ourselves in a magical world on the verge of chaos. Separated into four distinct groups, the people and creatures that makeup the world of WARDS OF FAERIE is complete, but not overwhelming. Some groups rely strongly on magic. Others find that magic completely unnecessary and dangerous. In the middle of all of the struggles are Aphenglow and her fellow Druids. They are tasked with protecting magic, no matter the cost. When an ancient magic is on the verge of being rediscovered, they must find it before it falls into the wrong hands. That journey just begins in this book-it is just one part of a much bigger story.

Final Thoughts: I didn't want to put this book down. Quite simply, I loved it. It was everything a good fantasy story should be-full of adventure, romance, magic and danger. While you do have to take the time to become familiar with the world that is inside the book, it is very easy to do. Brooks doesn't explain everything in detail. Instead, he introduces themes and concepts and the lets the reader infer what they want. And, surprisingly, you don't need to understand everything to still be able to really understand and enjoy the book. You know right away that you are in the middle of a bigger world, and you won't really know all there is to know about it before you get to the end.

Wards of Faerie (2012) is the first Fantasy novel in the Dark Legacy subseries of the Shannara series, following Legends of Shannara. The initial work in this series is The Sword of Shannara.

In the previous volume, Prue heard the explosion that meant the end of Inch. The surviving trolls soon located the entrance to Deladion's fortress. Prue tried to sneak out the back, but encountered a troll and ran back inside. The troll followed her and she was forced to shoot him.

Ragpicker found the trolls searching for a way to enter the fortress. He offered to assist them, but the leader laid hands on him. After the leader was dead, the remaining trolls were more helpful.

Ragpicker found Prue within the fortress and she fled from him. When he cornered her in a dead end, she shot him multiple times without effect. Then she disappeared in a flash of light.

In this novel, Aphenglow Elessedil is a young Druid. Aphen is the granddaughter of the King of the Elves.

Emperowen Elssedil is King of the Elven people. He has ruled for eighty years and has health problems. He is looking forward to relinquishing the throne.

Phaedon Elessedil is the son of Emperowen and heir to the Elven throne. Most elves believe that he would not be a good king.

Ellich Elessedil is the brother of Emperowen and the great-uncle of Aphen. She calls him Uncle, but he has been more like a father to her. He is married to Vera.

Arlingfant is Aphen's sister. Arling is a Chosen tending to the Ellcrys.

Khyber Elessedil is the Ard Rhys of the Druids. She is resting in Druid sleep while waiting for the others to need her. The magic keeps her informed of events.

Pleysia Ariana is an Elf. She is also a member of the Fourth Druid Order.

Seersha is a Dwarf. She is also a Druid.

Carrick is a Human. He is also a Druid.

Bombax is a Borderman. He is also a Druid and Aphen's lover.

Redden and Railing Ohmsford are young twins with a human father and an elven mother. Insofar as anyone knows, they are the last living males in the Ohmsford family. Their father died while helping the Druids and now their mother Sarys hates magic and Druids.

Mirai Leah is a Rover. Redden and Railing are in love with her, but she treats them both equally.

Drust Chazul is the Minister of the Treasury within the Federation. He wants to be Prime Minister.

Stoon is a very talented assassin. He has an exclusive contract with Chazul.

In this story, the action returns to the time of the Four Lands a century after the Third Druid Order. The elves no longer have much use for their magic. Yet Aphen is looking within the ancient Elf archives for information about lost or discarded talismans and spells.

Almost a year to the day after starting her search, Aphen finds a diary from thousands of years past. It relates the loss of most of the Elfstones. A Darkling boy had stolen them all except for the blue seeking-stones.

That evening, an assassin tries to strangle her. Arling intervenes and saves her life, but the assassin escapes. later, Aphen learns the assassin was not alone.

Another attempt is made against her the next day. This time Aphen is fully alert and successfully resists him. Despite her efforts to catch him alive, she uses too much force and kills the assassin. He is a human.

Aphen returns to Paranor and reports her findings. She suggests that the Ard Rhys be awakened. Only Pleysia argues against the wakening.

When Aphen goes to the Ard Rhys chambers, she finds Khyber dressed and ready to confer with the other Druids. The Ard Rhys decides to consult with the shades of the dead. She travels to Hadeshorn and asks Allanon for information on the missing Elfstones.

When she returns from Hadeshorn, Khyber states that they must have assistance from others. She sends Aphen back to Arborlon to find out more information and to ask for the use of the blue Elfstones. She also wants Aphen to ask her mother for information on the Elessedil family tree.

The Ard Rhys sends Pleysia and Carrick to the Federation. Bombax decides to look for help in the Borderlands and Seersha goes to the Dwarves for assistance. Khyber travels to Patch Run to talk with the Ohmsford twins.

When she arrives, Redden and Railing had already left with Mirai for Bakrabru. Sarys is enraged at her presence and initially orders her off the property. Khyber doesn't move. Eventually, Sarys tells her where the boys have gone.

Returning to Arborlon, Aphen requests permission from the King and Council for the use of the seeking-stones. Phaedon makes several disparaging remarks about the Druids, but the King tells him to stop. Emperowen lets her use the stones, but only one time and within Arborlon.

Meanwhile, Chazul has been elected as Prime Minister after the death of the former holder of that office. He goes to talk with Stoon about the Druids. He already knows that Aphen has found something in the Elven archives, but he doesn't know what she found.

They also discuss killing the other two contenders for the position of Prime Minister. Chazul prefers to waits until the death of his predecessor has faded from public thoughts. And he also has other uses for these opponents.

This tale takes Khyber and the other Druids into the wilds. They are accompanied by their Troll guards and other assistants. Aphen is left behind because of her broken leg.

Chazul comes to Paragon with five warships. The next installment in this sequence is Bloodfire Quest.

Highly recommended for Brooks fans and for anyone else who enjoys tales of ancient magic, aerial combat, and a bit of romance. Read and enjoy!

-Arthur W. Jordin

I've been reading Terry Brooks' books since his Shannara series first started, I believe in the late `70s. His first book was advertised then, I recall, as "something to read for those who've finished The Lord of the Rings." Although, in my opinion, Brooks' works are not quite in the same category as Tolkien's masterpiece, what he writes is of the same genre (good vs. evil fantasy fiction, with plenty of elves and other mythical creatures) and very good indeed.

Curiously enough, his latest title Wards of Faerie: The Dark Legacy of Shannara, hearkens back to that original series, bringing up fond recollections of the elven and human warriors and other subjects who were featured back then and familiar to Brooks' readers: the Druids, the Leahs, the Ohmsfords, the Wishsong, the Chosen, the Elvenstones, etc.

Any good book, whether general fiction or sci-fi/fantasy, is essentially a mystery. What will happen to the hero/heroine? Will he or she survive their deadly quest? Brooks makes the reader care about his protagonists and never fails to weave a great story.

This one, surrounding Alphenglow Elessedil (Druid and granddaughter of the elven king), as she spearheads the search for the lost Elvenstones, should delight Brooks' fans. Plenty of action and chapter-ending cliffhangers as the Ard Rhys and other Druids and friends battle unearthly creatures, and Alphenglow and her comrades seek to prevent an evil Federation from taking over the Druid fortress of Paranor.

Highly recommended.

A diary has been found, thousands of years old that explains the disapperance of the Elfstones and so the much depleted Druid Order sets off on an ill fated expedition to recover the stones to strengthen the Elfs dying magic. The missing magic, if found, could shift the balance of power within the Four Lands, away from the growing use of science.
Subversive elements in the Four Lands Federation are intent on removing all magic and it's practitioners by using forbidden secret weapons of science. Weapons that once threatened the destruction of the world. Knowing that the expedition has left the Druid fortress with minimal protection, the newly elected Prime Minister leads a military force to take the fortress.
The Druid expedition meanwhile, encounters beings unseen or heard of before, creatures that could only have come from the Forbidding which suggest that it's seals and wards now appear to be breaking open.
Even if you've never heard of Shannara or read any Terry Brooks novels, you can start with this book, it does stand alone. Although there are characters from previous series and events that took place in earlier storylines, Brooks manages to weave them into this story, explained as historical events of the past.
With his usual attention to detail, characters, political intrigues and a fully formed world, Brooks has the beginings of another satisfying series for fantasy fans to enjoy.

I have loved many of Mr. Brooks' books, and I've also put down a few, never to pick them up again. `Wards' fell somewhere in between.
The characters in a story are the most important element to me, and over-all, in this book, they just didn't do it for me. I was over a hundred pages into the book before felt an emotional connection to anyone. I don't know for sure why, and maybe I'm the only one. Even by the end of the book, I really didn't care who lived or died. And some people did die, and all I thought was, `saw that coming'.
I continued reading because Mr. Brooks does have a nice way of putting words on a page, and it was a small pleasure just to read without having to make sense of the paragraphs. (I've started and dropped several books lately because I just couldn't stand the way they were worded.) I like the amount of description Mr. Brooks uses, enough to give an idea of what things are like, but without slowing everything down. I feel an old connection to the world of Shannara, even if things have evolved over the last twenty some years. I may have to go back and read the Talismans series again some time soon, since it was my favorite.
And on to the more objective part of my review.
Language:
There is no bad language in this book. Not even `heck' or `darn'. Seriously clean.
Sexual Content:
There might be a kiss or two, I can't remember, and it's known that a couple of characters are sleeping together without being officially married, but nothing is described even in general terms.
Overall Plot/Theme
I don't recall picking up on anything that I would consider a theme, except maybe that no one should have total control. As for plot, it wasn't particularly original. Of course, most fantasy isn't. As long as the story is fun and the characters are engaging, it doesn't need to be all that original. I already told you how I didn't feel about the characters, and sadly, there was nothing fun in this story, either. Well, a couple of teenage boys went flying around in speed boats. That might be fun to some people, but not to me, especially. There were also some plot holes that I can't believe made it into a mainstream book. Unless I misread, SPOILER there's a point where a bunch of people on a flying ship have to get out and walk because they can't get over these hundred foot tall pillars, but earlier they had been flying a thousand feet in the air. And then later, when some people are injured/killed, they decide they have to call the flying boat to come and pick them up since they can't walk back. END SPOILER Did anyone else read this book and understand why that made sense?
So that's why only three stars. Maybe if it had been written by an indie author and I'd had lower expectations I would have given it four stars, but probably not.

This novel set in the Shannara universe is the start of a new trilogy. Several years have passed since the events in the High Druid of Shannara trilogy. The Druid order survives, but barely. With only a handful of Druids and disrespected and ignored by most of the Four Lands, the Druids struggle to fulfill their self-appointed mission: serving as guardians of the magic of the Four Lands (as a counterweight to the rise of science). In this novel, the Druids discover clues to the whereabouts of the long-lost sets of Elfstones and set off on a perilous quest to recover them. A second plotline involves the human Federation's attempt to assault Paranor, the Druid's Keep, in order to wipe out the Druid Order once and for all.

Unlike the last Terry Brooks novel that I reviewed (The Measure of the Magic), which was fair at best and a mere perfunctory expansion of the Shannara universe, this novel was very good. The story was mysterious and exciting. There is plenty of action. There are some interesting new characters and an intriguing quest to recover lost magic.

I have a few critiques. At times as he is wont to do, Brooks relies too much on introspection and internal deliberation to advance the storyline rather than action and conflict. However, in this book there is enough action to counter this flaw.

The novel could have been a little longer to accommodate greater characterization. Some of the main characters are fleshed out well enough. Aphenglow Elessedil, the Druid girl who discovers the clues about the missing Elfstones, is interesting and given real depth. Cymrian, Aphenglow's mysterious and exceptional protector, is a great character, and I would like to see more of him. Other characters are mere caricatures, archetypes of the supporting roles that Brooks has frequently used, e.g., a Gnome tracker, a Dwarf chieftain/warrior, a shapeshifter. (We are the Lost generation: We demand a backstory for each and every character!). Not really, but Brooks could have lengthened the novel to provide some depth to more of these secondary characters, turning a good novel into a great one.

The Dark Legacy of Shannara: Wards of Faerie should primarily appeal to fans of Brooks' previous work. I wholeheartedly recommend it.

Terry Brooks' writings have been a favorite of my husband's since he discovered them and he jumped into this book. Specific words, phrases, the map of the Four Lands, the Blue Divide - bring back to mind the world of Shannara, and the history in the author's books.

This book is based in time of about 100 years after the last book with Grianne Ohmsford as the prior Ard Rhys. Aphenglow Elessedil, a young elf in service to the Druids of Paranor (Druid's Keep), finds a diary in the Elven historys in Arborlon of a young elfish princess, Aleia Omarosian, who writes of the fate of the lost elfstones (all sets except for the Blue Seeking Stones, which remain with the Elves). In response, the Ard Rhys (or High Druid), Khyber Elessedil, travels to the Hadeshorn to ask the dead of the validity of this discovery. The Shade of Allanon appears twice, the second time after speaking with Aleia, to say that the diary is true, but also that Aleia was a Chosen, and presumably an Ellcrys (the sapient tree that acts as the barrier between the Four Lands and the alternate world of the Forbidding) , and presumably having been replaced by Amberle Elessedil in The Elfstones of Shannara. Knowing that the missing elfstones are likely dangerous in the wrong hands, and with Allanon's direction and encouragement, Khyber decides to embark on this mission to find the missing elfstones, needing a competent crew for extra help, including a Ohmsford descendent. Among them are Redden and Railing Ohmsford of Patch Run, twin brothers having the power of the Wishsong, and direct descendants of Bek Ohmsford.

The Shannara series is based on a future, fictional, or alternate world where both man (with lost technology), and a few other races (with magic) coexist. Terry's Shannara series books always include a hidden love interest. The use of magic is limited or controlled, having undesired consequences on the user, which is the type of fantasy book my husband prefers. Having a competition for both technology and magic makes the Shannara series more plausible, or at least more based in reality, or down to earth than any other fantasy novel.

This is a very engaging book that leads the reader to crave the next of the trilogy - The Bloodfire Quest.

Terry Brooks has returned to fine form with WARDS OF FAERIE: THE DARK LEGACY OF SHANNARA. Just finished reading the book for the the store VINE program, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

It is a return to the classic form of a quest story, with plenty of intrigue, politics, betrayal, romance, action, mystery, interesting characters, and all of the other crucial elements that make up a great story. If you have enjoyed past Shannara books (like the HERITAGE series, and the JERLE SHANNARA series), then you will LOVE this.

There are numerous plots (all of them interesting and compelling) that make up this book. Briefly, when druid Aphenglow Elessedil discovers a diary that mentions the fabled lost elfstones (not the fabled black elfstone, or the familiar three blue elfstones but other missing stones), the druids (led by their leader Khyber Elessedil) agree to take up a search for them. They quickly assemble a group of warriors, trackers, a few Ohmsfords, and others to accomplish their task. But the Federation, led by new Prime Minister Drust Chazhul) unleashes a plan to stop the druids from achieving their quest which includes wanting to destroy Paranor and ultimately eliminate magic from the Four Lands. Also discussed is the political turmoil facing the Elven city of Arborlon, which is experiencing a changing of the guard with the possibility of brash leadership gaining control. There are other plots which make up the story, but these are the biggies. Many characters have interesting arcs they have to carry themselves through.

New colorful and intriguing characters litter the story's landscape, and big things happen to all of them. Just when you think you know what is going to happen, Brooks inserts tragedy when you least expect it. He keeps you second-guessing events, and things happen that you don't expect. The quest is littered with unfolding mysteries and imaginative dangers we haven't experienced yet. This keeps the story suspensful. All the while, you are reading what is best described as a page turner.

There are nice nods to satisfy longtime readers (and to bring back memories of past stories), but these don't detract the storytelling for new readers. Like most Brooks books, this one takes place about 100 years after the last series (HIGH DRUID series), and continues the thread forward (as opposed to the the PRE SHANNARA stories we've gotten for the last few years).

Thankfully, this new trilogy (of which this is obviously the first) will feature releases every 6 months, which is a Godsend to Brooks fans who normally have to wait a year between releases. Upon finishing, I wished I had the next one, because I want to keep reading! You can bet I'll buy it the minute it's out.

WARDS OF FAIRIE, the first book of the new series called THE DARK LEGACY OF SHANNARA, is an awesome addition to the Shannara pantheon. Buy this book now, and settle in for a fun read in the awesome world created by Terry Brooks. If you are new to the series... by all means... start reading them all!

In a time when magic has all but disappeared from the land, Druids are the keepers of what little remains, but that has caused resentment among the various races. We've got political intrigue, murder, assassinations (and attempts), a siege, and even an appearance by a shade from long past.

In this installment, set right after the events in the The High Druid of Shannara Trilogy (Jarka Ruus, Tanequil, Straken), Khyber Elessedil is the Ard Rhys of the Driuds' Fourth Order. She has woken from the Druid sleep to the news that a reference to the long missing (and forgotten) OTHER sets of Elfstones has been found. As the Druids' charter is to locate and safeguard all remaining magic, a quest must be undertaken to find them. This story takes place as the discovery and decisions are made. Significant preparations are required -- this is no simple seek-and-find or snatch-and-grab quest. We've still got airships, which makes travel and communication over great distance a lot quicker, but there is still so much going on that we just don't know. As the story unfolds, there were some obvious connections and predictable outcomes, but I can say that I was surprised a few times.

While there are fewer "creatures" and magic items involved with this story than the others set in the Shannara world, I still found this one interesting. The addition of more advanced technology -- we're talking about powered airships and weaponry, not robots, cell phones or computers -- to the mix makes for an interesting, "part magic, part technology" environment. I was a little disappointed when it was over; the various threads stop right in the middle with no real resolution in sight. Bad for a standalone book, but great for a series. We're far enough along that the next book has to be packed with conflict, discovery and action.

As far as new readers, I don't know about starting out here since there are many landmarks and much history carried forward from the previous stories. I do like that Terry Brooks doesn't repeat himself or go into long re-explanations. If you don't know what the Ellcrys or Forbidding are, he summarizes it in a sentence or two and moves on rather than dwelling on it each time they are mentioned. Some authors tend to pad page counts by pasting in boilerplate in those situations. Not here.

I guess you could say that I'm a fan. I've been waiting for this next trilogy for quite some time. After reading this book, I've got to say that it was worth the wait. If you're also a fan, what are you waiting for??

Terry Brooks' new trilogy, The Dark Legacy of Shannara, begins with this novel, Wards of Faerie. The tale follows an elven Druid named Aphenglow Elessedil who, upon joining the Druids, was virtually exiled from her people and land. Because she's related to royalty, she's allowed to come and go, but there immense distrust within her community. Her current mission has her perusing the royal library of ancient books, scrolls, notes, and any scrap piece of paper she can obtain. Her goal is to find hints of long lost magic and ensure it remains in the safe hands of the Druid Order. Little did she know upon starting that she would uncover a diary with clues to the missing, powerful Elfstones. This sets up the primary driving force with Aphenglow reporting to the Druid Chieftan, Khyber Elessedil, who is apparently a holdover from the previous set of novels, and the pair arranging a quest - which naturally meets with struggle, difficulty, betrayal, mystery, and evil - to find the missing Elfstones.

Being somewhat new to the Shannara trilogy system made immensely popular by Terry Brooks, I must say this book disappointed me somewhat. I've read the Word & Void, Genesis of Shannara, and Legends of Shannara series, so I have some understanding of the history, landscape, character families, and struggles between various players. This series, however, is difficult to begin for a reader not fully immersed in the Shannara world. Occurring eons after the Legends series, and a significant amount of time after the High Druid of Shannara series - so I've researched - I'm approximately a couple thousand years (guesstimation) behind the beginning of this book. Which makes it sort of difficult to follow at times since it's drastically different from four series past.

Having said that, I am an admitted big fan of Terry Brooks, and only wish I had discovered his world when I was younger. I have no doubt in my mind that no stone will be left unturned, and all questions answered, before the final installment of this trilogy. Because of that, I have enough faith to set aside the minor esotericisms and accept the wonderfully crafted tale, with rich characters, firm plot-lines, good forward advancement, and the type of description that fosters easy visualization in a reader's mind.

This novel is highly recommended for those versed in Shannara, and recommended with minor reservation for the uninitiated.

Terry Brooks is a writing genius. His words capture your mind. Take you back to a time when Elves, Trolls, Dwarves, and other mythical people are part of our world.

Pros:
I love Aphenglow, elf and Druid. She is smart and has heart. But she is not without her faults too which makes her more human than if she was perfect. Druids are not liked by the Elves and Aphenglow is shunned by her mother. The Druids and the Elves were enemies at one time and some Elves have not forgotten or forgiven that time.

The story line itself is intricate and has several different layers to it. And like any good layer cake, each layer must be made carefully so that it doesn't overwhelm the others, but adds to the whole cake.

In the base layer, Aphenglow discovers a diary and in it she also finds a reference to the lost blue elfstones. She has to go against being an elf; hide the information she has found in the records of the Elves; and put it into the safe keeping of the Druids. Someone knows that she has found something and is out to kill her and take the information from her.

Then comes the political intrigue portion of the story. The Federation Council is another force that does not like the Druids and soon it is taken over by one who believes that the magic the Druids hold should be his. Another layer to the cake. Complete with assassins and plots within plots.

There is the Ard Rhys who is the leader of the Druids. She awakes only when there is dire need for her. And she has awoken to the call. Finding the blue elfstones becomes her quest. This is yet another layer. The quest is dangerous and goes into lands that become playgrounds for creatures of the Void.

Then comes the layer of romance, Aphenglow and Bombax and Cymrian. She has committed to him as a life mate. He knows that they will not be together forever, their natures are too different. Then he is not Elven also. Bombax is very independent and will go when he needs to go and not make any excuses for his actions. Cymrian is an Elven warrior who has promised to guard Aphenglow. She doesn't understand why he is doing it --duh--<3 <3. He is my favorite.

I think I need to stop with this review. I want to re-read the book!
Love you all for reading!

... is a terrible thing to waste. Witness the comparatively vaster world (two worlds, one might even argue: that of the First Age and that of subsequent ages and The Lord of the Rings) left behind by JRR Tolkien, and the comparatively minuscule body of work that we have by that author. Brooks, however, doesn't leave his own world so bereft. He continues to fill out and realize his world by adding story after story, epic after epic, to an extent that probably no other writer of high epic fantasy with a single world all his own has accomplished.

Brooks' novels have sometimes been hit-or-miss in areas such as character development, meaningfulness (nebulous category, I know, but still "there") and believability. But he always hits certain notes right: sheer adventure and a sense of wonder. And even when his writing dips to the level of higher-grade pulp, those two elements make his books rewarding and exciting. I am something of a perfectionist when it comes to writing, and critique writers as I go through their work, and I do so with Brooks, but am always happy when I come away from his novels. It's not escapism, so much as a rekindling of desires and sensibilities from my boyhood.

Wards of Faerie is the first part of a new trilogy, set at a remove of a few decades or so from his last chronological foray into The Four Lands. It has a cool sort of steampunk vibe, with airships and light-based weapons, and an interesting element of science-versus-magic that, while I've seen elsewhere, is really well done here. Brooks has a sort of genius for politics, for creating a believable set of motivations and prejudices unique to his fantasy world. and it plays strongly in this first book, which is good. He is playing up one of his best strengths. In terms of plot, this is very obvious as the first part of a trilogy, in fact, it ends on such a cliffhanger, so early in the arcs of most of the characters, that I think it would've been better as a single huge novel, like his original Sword of Shannara, and the trilogy format is pretty obviously a marketing tactic. However, the books are being released on a six-month schedule, so that's not too awful long to wait. I am actually alright with the more episodic approach that seems to be slowly surfacing among fiction writers today - it fits better with a saturated market, the rise of e-readership, and the fraughtness of our busy lives.

My only other nitpick with this novel is the one-dimensionality of some of the characters. It's a recurring problem with Brooks, and can be overlooked as these characters usually die in some horrible fashion at the hands of a terrifying monster. But it never quite keeps them from seeming like red-shirts from Star Trek, mere plot devices. Weighed against strong world-building, intrigue, a cool setting, and good adventure, however, I'm quite happy to overlook it, for the most part. If you've been a Brooks fan for very long, pick this up. If you're not much of one, read the original Shannara trilogy, at least, before tackling this one. They're hugely enjoyable and will provide invaluable backstory for understanding many of the places, things and people mentioned in this series.

In a time when the world was young, when magic was more than myth, an Elven girl named Aleia met and fell in love with a Darkling boy from the Void. They would meet in secret, but a day came when Aleia awoke and found a note he left behind. To her dismay, she discovered that he had stolen two of the five Elfstones, the powerful wards that protected the land of the Elves.

It is this story that Aphenglow Elessedil, an Elf devoted to the Druids, uncovers in an archive, scrawled in a diary long hidden away. Thousands of years have passed since that fateful event. The Elves have withdrawn from the world. Corrupt politicians in the land of men connive and backstab and seek their own fortunes, and the downfall of others. The only thing men have in common with Elves is their distrust of the Druids.

Rumblings of war begin to emanate through the lands. Drust Chazhul has manipulated his way to the seat of power and is set on assaulting the Druid's Keep. In the meantime, driven into unmapped and dangerous lands by Aphenglow's visions of the lost Elfstones, the Ard Rhys enters a race against time, bringing with her, among others, the twin Ohmsford boys, Redden and Railing. They must seek out and claim the Elfstones to prevent them from falling into the wrong hands, while those left behind in the Druid's Keep must struggle to prevent the overthrow of the Druid sect against an unrelenting tide of deceit.

With WARDS OF FAERIE, award-winning author Terry Brooks plunges readers into the Dark Legacy of Shannara, a three-book series that will see publication in quick succession (Book Two will come out in Spring 2013 and Book Three in Summer 2013.) The swiftness of the releases will be a huge benefit to readers because if this opening volume is any indication, the tensions and mysteries of this series will be amped very high. Having those questions answered and those tensions resolved so soon can only boost excitement for the remaining volumes.

With each successive book that Brooks writes, his Shannara world grows all the more compelling and exquisite. Every volume is a new layer to be explored, and it enriches the whole of the Shannara canon. Of equal importance is that his abilities as a writer have showed no signs of growing stagnant or stale. Though he has kept returning to his old stomping grounds, he has found new ways to keep the world fresh and yet also steeped in history and age.

The overlapping arcs contained within WARDS OF FAERIE certainly keep the pages turning: Aphenglow and her quest for knowledge about Aleia and the Darkling boy, hindered by multiple assassination attempts, plus the cold distance of her mother and her race because of her decision to join the Druid sect. The Ard Rhys caught in an elegantly creepy moment when she calls upon the shade of Allanon, and then must collect the two Ohmsford boys as her aides --- a task made more difficult by their mother, who blames the Ard Rhys for the death of their father. The political intrigues of Drust Chazul and his sellsword, moving one pawn after another in a powerplay so bold and dangerous, yet also uncertain. These threads are so marvelously woven together, and the tapestry they form is one of action, mystery and sorrow.

Terry Brooks shines once again, and this new chapter in the legacy of the world of Shannara is a must-read installment.

Reviewed by Stephen Hubbard

I'm a long time lover of the world of Shannara that Terry Brooks created. Over the years I've read and enjoyed his many series and stand alone which have given greater depth, insight and history into this world. With Wards of Faerie, we begin a new adventure set in the Four Lands many years after the High Druid of Shannara series.

This series, like most of the others, centers upon a quest. This time the Druids are on a quest to find Elfstones that were lost thousands of years ago. In fact they have been lost so long that they have entered into the realm of myth and legend to the point that nobody knows what they do and some even doubt their existence. In many ways it is evident that this book is the first book in a series. The first many chapters involve the characters doing a lot of research, talking, thinking and preparing for things to come. There are a few small fights and interactions throughout these first few chapters to help "up the ante" and make it apparent that there is certain danger in the days to come.

Personally I enjoyed the slower pace. Rather than dumping us headlong into an adventure, Brooks takes his time and lets us get to know a number of core characters very intimately. We work side-by-side with Aphenglow as she intently studies the ancient Elven histories in search of clues. We play and race with the twins Redden and Railing and learn about their impulsive spontaneity as well as their close brotherly bond. We are taken deep inside the political intrigue and rise of a new Prime Minister of the Federation. We learn about the new Druid Order and the current Ard Rhs Kyhber. Through the first half of the book, we walk alongside a series of key characters as they make meticulous investigations and preparations for a huge adventure to come.

For those who are fans of action, don't worry. Just because the book spends a lot of time setting up the main adventure doesn't mean that it can't have significant action. As I already mentioned, there are a couple of hand-to-hand fights early on in the book. These are precursors to numerous smaller action sequences through the first half of the book. By the midpoint though, the action starts to pick up and before long there is an all out siege being waged by hundreds of soldiers at the same time as other explorers are facing environmental dangers in a strange new land as they seek out the Stones.

For those who haven't read any of the Shannara books before, Brooks always provides enough exposition and backstory to let you jump into a new series without being terribly lost. However if you've read previous Shannara books, there are plenty of scenes that should make fans very happy including a brief appearance by a character from some of the early books.

While I agree with the critics who say that Brooks's works aren't "high literature", I also have to admit that he does pen fun and compelling stories that really draw me in and keep me turning page after page. In addition to the overall danger of the quest to find the Elfstones, there is a huge conspiratorial battle lurking behind the scenes and ready to explode into sight that could change the face and fate of the Four Lands.

I found it a joy to get back into the world of Shannara and begin another epic adventure. My only complaint is that (as is often the case) the book ends by leaving me with apprehension as to what will happen next...and I have to wait until next year to find out. This book had all the intriguing characters, compelling plot twists and turns (though I admit that I found one of the big "twists" to be somewhat predictable), and exciting adventure that I've come to love from Terry Brooks.

I can definitely recommend this to any Shannara fan. Although I would recommend you go back and pick up some of the earlier series too, if you haven't read any of Brooks's books before, you should enjoy this without requiring any previous reading. As is the case with his earlier works, the action and violence is big enough to be exciting while still being acceptable for younger readers (even down into the tweens).

****
4 out of 5 stars

This is the first Terry Brooks novel I've ever read and maaaan was I in for an adventure! Although I really enjoyed the book, I believe having not read her other series did leave me missing some character connections and world building. However, I still connected with the characters, LOVED the world, and enjoyed every moment learning about the Wards of Faerie.

Our main character, Aphenglow Elessedil, is an elf who disgraced her family by joining the druid order, a powerful group of mages from all genetic backgrounds who pride themselves on maintaining a balanced relationship between all creatures in the Four Lands. An outcast in the home of the elves and with only her sister and great uncle to guide her, Aphen begins her tale uncovering a secret of the past, one that may lead her to a great lost power.

This book was extremely well-written and developed. The characters were relatable and although there wasn't a lot of romantic relationship development between characters, but the tension and possibilities are set up for in the next books.

This book was told from several characters perspectives - but that didn't begin for quite a while in the book. I was very used to hearing from Aphen, and although I appreciated the other perspectives and they were necessary for the development of the novel, I missed her voice.

That being said, I did enjoy some of the secondary characters and the developments throughout the story, I guess I just felt as though not enough was uncovered. This was a book that I think can't be a stand alone...you NEED that second book to learn anything about the first and that's why it is missing a star. I think I would know more about the world and what is happening had I read Brooks' other books, however as the first book in the series, not much evolved from the initial problem. Some things yes - just not enough to make me satisfied.

Although I don't read a lot of epic fantasy, I love a great one and Wards of Faerie is pretty darn great.

*This book was provided by Del Ray Publishing via NetGalley in return for an unbiased review*

I have read almost all of Terry Brooks books. His Landover series got me to love reading in high school. I met him at a book signing when I was in college.

I was a bit disappointed by the Dark Legacy trilogy for three reasons.

First, the series follows the same formula as other Shannara books -- it is generations since the last trilogy, a new evil lurks that threatens to destroy everything, a ragtag crew of mostly the same demographics gathers, they defeat the odds.

Second, I had trouble identifying with any of the characters. There did not seem to be a lot of depth to main characters as I have found in other Brooks' books. I couldn't immerse myself into the story without this.

Third, this is the first series I can recall where he introduced sexual promiscuity. That was a big turn-off for me.

Being a die-hard Terry Brooks fan, I recommend reading it. But he has better works.

While creating a world like Shannara with a history provides a draw for readers to revisit with each subsequent publication, it also creates a need for some writers to try to fill in every possible nook and cranny of this history. I certainly enjoy Shannara and even when some novels in this series are better than others, I still try to keep with each new Shannara novel.

The Elfstones are perhaps the most referenced magical artifact in Shannara, so it shouldn't be too surprising that a trilogy might revolve around attempts to recover long-lost elfstones. Wards of Faerie is about this attempt as Druid Aphenglow Elessedil finds clues about these missing stones. The novel also continues the magic versus technology theme that emerged first in Scions of Shannara and something Brooks revisits regularly, along with Druids verses distrusting humans and elves.

**Spoiler Alert**

It's somewhat refreshing that the main character is unable to even go on their quest, though the book still manages to include at least part of the quest that is fairly typical for Brooks, along with ruthless, but one dimensional enemies. The book also leaves several loose ends to tie up in the next book in the series, which is frustrating, but not unusual in this genre or for Brooks. As other reviewers have noted, foreshadowing is heavy handed and it's rarely surprising when a character's uneasiness is justified or when the Druids's Keep is nearly left empty in time for an invasion from the Human Federation. Most of the characters are developed, but some are dumped in to fill out the quest party with mixed results. He also continues his trend of speeding through actions that could provide better understanding of characters.

Brooks typically publishes one book a year, but he is speeding up for this trilogy. I personally wish he would slow down and take the time to develop each book.

I approached the release of Wards of Faerie with no little amount of trepidation. Since Brooks concluded The Voyage of the Jerle Shannara 10 years ago, with the exception of Armageddon's Children, I felt disappointment with each of his novels, from mild to severe. Where was the Brooks I fell in love with as a boy, first discovering Fantasy? Was he gone? Or was I simply grown up, better read and unable to appreciate the type of fiction that Brooks writes?

But what I found from almost the first page was different. It was meatier, slower paced and the characters had real motivations, real depth to them that reminded me of his earlier works. Aphenglow Ellessedil might not have been as immediately engaging as Wil Ohmsford or as mysterious as Walker Boh, but there was an inner drive to her quest to find the missing Elfstones that delved deep than my-valley-is-at-risk, or the-bad-guys-are-coming. It was curiousity, it spoke of adventure and promised of new lands to explore. These elements have been scattered throughout Brooks' more recent works, but they felt more concentrated here, purer. The pages started turning and I finished Wards of Faerie in about a third the amount of time that it took me to finish Brooks' last novel, The Measure of Magic. I couldn't put it down.

The `Brooks' vocabulary is no less prevalent in this novel than in his previous series. There's a druid order fighting to keep magic from dying away in a world that is quickly being dominated by the old sciences, missing Elfstones, plucky young protagonists, grizzled Troll guards. We've seen it all before. But were it felt paint-by-the-numbers for the last several books, here it feels invigorated again. It's not a search for the blue Elfstones again, but an old magic that has been lost since long before the earliest volume in the Shannara timeline. And this time around, the party can't rely on the magic of the Elfstones to save them or guide them on their journey, for Brooks uses politics and the mired relationship of a broken family to limit their use. The journey is familiar, but the means of getting there is different. There's a scope here that hasn't been seen since The Heritage of Shannara, a sequence that is often considered Brooks' best effort in the Shannara series.

Though the plot remains admittedly familiar, it's the characters that really shine and kept me invested in the search for the lost Elfstones. Brooks has always worked hard at establishing a mystery early in his novels, but generally falters because the reader can too easily recognize the elements that he's used to piece together the eventual conclusion. Though, when you really get down to it, that's still the case where, Wards of Faerie manages somehow to avoid this predictable fate, despite using the same elements as the previous series. It feels fresh. The characters feel like they have something at stake. It feels like Brooks is writing a story he's excited to tell.

In general, the characters aren't going to blow away any readers familiar with the genre's best writers, but they're interesting and fill their niches well. Every Shannara novel needs an Ohmsford, and Wards of Faerie has Redden and Railing, but I felt that they were under utilized. As twins, their relationship, which is set to diverge in the later volumes of the trilogy, will be key to maintaining the strength of the trilogy. Arling and Aphen's relationship is similar and Brooks sets up some interesting developments for these two characters as they, like the twins, appear to be set on very different, but equally important, paths in the final pages of Wards of Faerie.

Brooks takes a lot of heat for the novels he published early in his career, particularly The Sword of Shannara, which was a self-admitted copycat of The Lord of the Rings, nurtured by the legendary Lester Del Rey to fit into a void left after Tolkien published the final volume of The Lord of the Rings. It worked. Brooks, along with Stephen Donaldson, helped reinvigorate the Fantasy genre in the late 70s and opened the door for authors like Raymond Feist, Tad Williams and Robert Jordan, who in turn opened doors for authors like Patrick Rothfuss and the mighty George R.R. Marting. It might be difficult for newcomers or younger readers to appreciate Brooks' impact on the genre, but without him, nothing would exist as it does now. During the 35 years of his career, Brooks has had his ups and downs.

Wards of Faerie is the best novel Brooks has written in years, since Ilse Witch in 2000. It's full of hair-raising escapes, twists to established traditions and set pieces familiar to Shannara fans and characters, interesting magic and monsters and diverse relationships. Wards of Faerie is enough to convince me that Brooks still has what it takes to write a novel worthy of the Shannara lineage. What that lineage means to you will likely determine what you get out of Wards of Faerie and the rest of the Dark Legacy of Shannara.

I'm a long time lover of the world of Shannara that Terry Brooks created. Over the years I've read and enjoyed his many series and stand alone which have given greater depth, insight and history into this world. With Wards of Faerie, we begin a new adventure set in the Four Lands many years after the High Druid of Shannara series.

This series, like most of the others, centers upon a quest. This time the Druids are on a quest to find Elfstones that were lost thousands of years ago. In fact they have been lost so long that they have entered into the realm of myth and legend to the point that nobody knows what they do and some even doubt their existence. In many ways it is evident that this book is the first book in a series. The first many chapters involve the characters doing a lot of research, talking, thinking and preparing for things to come. There are a few small fights and interactions throughout these first few chapters to help "up the ante" and make it apparent that there is certain danger in the days to come.

Personally I enjoyed the slower pace. Rather than dumping us headlong into an adventure, Brooks takes his time and lets us get to know a number of core characters very intimately. We work side-by-side with Aphenglow as she intently studies the ancient Elven histories in search of clues. We play and race with the twins Redden and Railing and learn about their impulsive spontaneity as well as their close brotherly bond. We are taken deep inside the political intrigue and rise of a new Prime Minister of the Federation. We learn about the new Druid Order and the current Ard Rhs Kyhber. Through the first half of the book, we walk alongside a series of key characters as they make meticulous investigations and preparations for a huge adventure to come.

For those who are fans of action, don't worry. Just because the book spends a lot of time setting up the main adventure doesn't mean that it can't have significant action. As I already mentioned, there are a couple of hand-to-hand fights early on in the book. These are precursors to numerous smaller action sequences through the first half of the book. By the midpoint though, the action starts to pick up and before long there is an all out siege being waged by hundreds of soldiers at the same time as other explorers are facing environmental dangers in a strange new land as they seek out the Stones.

For those who haven't read any of the Shannara books before, Brooks always provides enough exposition and backstory to let you jump into a new series without being terribly lost. However if you've read previous Shannara books, there are plenty of scenes that should make fans very happy including a brief appearance by a character from some of the early books.

While I agree with the critics who say that Brooks's works aren't "high literature", I also have to admit that he does pen fun and compelling stories that really draw me in and keep me turning page after page. In addition to the overall danger of the quest to find the Elfstones, there is a huge conspiratorial battle lurking behind the scenes and ready to explode into sight that could change the face and fate of the Four Lands.

I found it a joy to get back into the world of Shannara and begin another epic adventure. My only complaint is that (as is often the case) the book ends by leaving me with apprehension as to what will happen next...and I have to wait until next year to find out. This book had all the intriguing characters, compelling plot twists and turns (though I admit that I found one of the big "twists" to be somewhat predictable), and exciting adventure that I've come to love from Terry Brooks.

I can definitely recommend this to any Shannara fan. Although I would recommend you go back and pick up some of the earlier series too, if you haven't read any of Brooks's books before, you should enjoy this without requiring any previous reading. As is the case with his earlier works, the action and violence is big enough to be exciting while still being acceptable for younger readers (even down into the tweens).

****
4 out of 5 stars

This is the first Terry Brooks novel I've ever read and maaaan was I in for an adventure! Although I really enjoyed the book, I believe having not read her other series did leave me missing some character connections and world building. However, I still connected with the characters, LOVED the world, and enjoyed every moment learning about the Wards of Faerie.

Our main character, Aphenglow Elessedil, is an elf who disgraced her family by joining the druid order, a powerful group of mages from all genetic backgrounds who pride themselves on maintaining a balanced relationship between all creatures in the Four Lands. An outcast in the home of the elves and with only her sister and great uncle to guide her, Aphen begins her tale uncovering a secret of the past, one that may lead her to a great lost power.

This book was extremely well-written and developed. The characters were relatable and although there wasn't a lot of romantic relationship development between characters, but the tension and possibilities are set up for in the next books.

This book was told from several characters perspectives - but that didn't begin for quite a while in the book. I was very used to hearing from Aphen, and although I appreciated the other perspectives and they were necessary for the development of the novel, I missed her voice.

That being said, I did enjoy some of the secondary characters and the developments throughout the story, I guess I just felt as though not enough was uncovered. This was a book that I think can't be a stand alone...you NEED that second book to learn anything about the first and that's why it is missing a star. I think I would know more about the world and what is happening had I read Brooks' other books, however as the first book in the series, not much evolved from the initial problem. Some things yes - just not enough to make me satisfied.

Although I don't read a lot of epic fantasy, I love a great one and Wards of Faerie is pretty darn great.

*This book was provided by Del Ray Publishing via NetGalley in return for an unbiased review*

I have read almost all of Terry Brooks books. His Landover series got me to love reading in high school. I met him at a book signing when I was in college.

I was a bit disappointed by the Dark Legacy trilogy for three reasons.

First, the series follows the same formula as other Shannara books -- it is generations since the last trilogy, a new evil lurks that threatens to destroy everything, a ragtag crew of mostly the same demographics gathers, they defeat the odds.

Second, I had trouble identifying with any of the characters. There did not seem to be a lot of depth to main characters as I have found in other Brooks' books. I couldn't immerse myself into the story without this.

Third, this is the first series I can recall where he introduced sexual promiscuity. That was a big turn-off for me.

Being a die-hard Terry Brooks fan, I recommend reading it. But he has better works.

While creating a world like Shannara with a history provides a draw for readers to revisit with each subsequent publication, it also creates a need for some writers to try to fill in every possible nook and cranny of this history. I certainly enjoy Shannara and even when some novels in this series are better than others, I still try to keep with each new Shannara novel.

The Elfstones are perhaps the most referenced magical artifact in Shannara, so it shouldn't be too surprising that a trilogy might revolve around attempts to recover long-lost elfstones. Wards of Faerie is about this attempt as Druid Aphenglow Elessedil finds clues about these missing stones. The novel also continues the magic versus technology theme that emerged first in Scions of Shannara and something Brooks revisits regularly, along with Druids verses distrusting humans and elves.

**Spoiler Alert**

It's somewhat refreshing that the main character is unable to even go on their quest, though the book still manages to include at least part of the quest that is fairly typical for Brooks, along with ruthless, but one dimensional enemies. The book also leaves several loose ends to tie up in the next book in the series, which is frustrating, but not unusual in this genre or for Brooks. As other reviewers have noted, foreshadowing is heavy handed and it's rarely surprising when a character's uneasiness is justified or when the Druids's Keep is nearly left empty in time for an invasion from the Human Federation. Most of the characters are developed, but some are dumped in to fill out the quest party with mixed results. He also continues his trend of speeding through actions that could provide better understanding of characters.

Brooks typically publishes one book a year, but he is speeding up for this trilogy. I personally wish he would slow down and take the time to develop each book.

I approached the release of Wards of Faerie with no little amount of trepidation. Since Brooks concluded The Voyage of the Jerle Shannara 10 years ago, with the exception of Armageddon's Children, I felt disappointment with each of his novels, from mild to severe. Where was the Brooks I fell in love with as a boy, first discovering Fantasy? Was he gone? Or was I simply grown up, better read and unable to appreciate the type of fiction that Brooks writes?

But what I found from almost the first page was different. It was meatier, slower paced and the characters had real motivations, real depth to them that reminded me of his earlier works. Aphenglow Ellessedil might not have been as immediately engaging as Wil Ohmsford or as mysterious as Walker Boh, but there was an inner drive to her quest to find the missing Elfstones that delved deep than my-valley-is-at-risk, or the-bad-guys-are-coming. It was curiousity, it spoke of adventure and promised of new lands to explore. These elements have been scattered throughout Brooks' more recent works, but they felt more concentrated here, purer. The pages started turning and I finished Wards of Faerie in about a third the amount of time that it took me to finish Brooks' last novel, The Measure of Magic. I couldn't put it down.

The `Brooks' vocabulary is no less prevalent in this novel than in his previous series. There's a druid order fighting to keep magic from dying away in a world that is quickly being dominated by the old sciences, missing Elfstones, plucky young protagonists, grizzled Troll guards. We've seen it all before. But were it felt paint-by-the-numbers for the last several books, here it feels invigorated again. It's not a search for the blue Elfstones again, but an old magic that has been lost since long before the earliest volume in the Shannara timeline. And this time around, the party can't rely on the magic of the Elfstones to save them or guide them on their journey, for Brooks uses politics and the mired relationship of a broken family to limit their use. The journey is familiar, but the means of getting there is different. There's a scope here that hasn't been seen since The Heritage of Shannara, a sequence that is often considered Brooks' best effort in the Shannara series.

Though the plot remains admittedly familiar, it's the characters that really shine and kept me invested in the search for the lost Elfstones. Brooks has always worked hard at establishing a mystery early in his novels, but generally falters because the reader can too easily recognize the elements that he's used to piece together the eventual conclusion. Though, when you really get down to it, that's still the case where, Wards of Faerie manages somehow to avoid this predictable fate, despite using the same elements as the previous series. It feels fresh. The characters feel like they have something at stake. It feels like Brooks is writing a story he's excited to tell.

In general, the characters aren't going to blow away any readers familiar with the genre's best writers, but they're interesting and fill their niches well. Every Shannara novel needs an Ohmsford, and Wards of Faerie has Redden and Railing, but I felt that they were under utilized. As twins, their relationship, which is set to diverge in the later volumes of the trilogy, will be key to maintaining the strength of the trilogy. Arling and Aphen's relationship is similar and Brooks sets up some interesting developments for these two characters as they, like the twins, appear to be set on very different, but equally important, paths in the final pages of Wards of Faerie.

Brooks takes a lot of heat for the novels he published early in his career, particularly The Sword of Shannara, which was a self-admitted copycat of The Lord of the Rings, nurtured by the legendary Lester Del Rey to fit into a void left after Tolkien published the final volume of The Lord of the Rings. It worked. Brooks, along with Stephen Donaldson, helped reinvigorate the Fantasy genre in the late 70s and opened the door for authors like Raymond Feist, Tad Williams and Robert Jordan, who in turn opened doors for authors like Patrick Rothfuss and the mighty George R.R. Marting. It might be difficult for newcomers or younger readers to appreciate Brooks' impact on the genre, but without him, nothing would exist as it does now. During the 35 years of his career, Brooks has had his ups and downs.

Wards of Faerie is the best novel Brooks has written in years, since Ilse Witch in 2000. It's full of hair-raising escapes, twists to established traditions and set pieces familiar to Shannara fans and characters, interesting magic and monsters and diverse relationships. Wards of Faerie is enough to convince me that Brooks still has what it takes to write a novel worthy of the Shannara lineage. What that lineage means to you will likely determine what you get out of Wards of Faerie and the rest of the Dark Legacy of Shannara.

Wards of Faerie is the first book in the latest trilogy from Terry Brooks. While the characters are new, long time readers will recognize the family names as main characters are descended from important characters in past Shannara books. This connection is important because it indicates to the reader exactly how that character may be important to the story. Brooks is able to pass along gifts and characteristics without having to do in depth character building in each book.

The essential quest format of the book is familiar as well. Brooks introduces the main players, gives them a choice about undertaking a journey, and off they go into danger. Although it might seem that knowing the plot outline ahead of time would render each book too similar to the last, Brooks keeps the reader's attention through the personalities of the characters and the details of the world and action. He also adds enough history and description so a reader new to Shannara would be able to start with this book and not feel lost.

My only complaint about this book is that it felt incomplete. It seemed as if the quest had truly just begun when I reached the end of the book. I am very glad that this trilogy will be released in rapid fire fashion with the books coming out every six months so I won't have to wait too long for the next portion of the story. This release schedule also means that I don't have to wait almost a year for the paperback version to come out.

I think Wards of Faerie will please both longtime Shannara readers and readers new to the world.

I must admit that I have not read a Shannara book since 1982 when I was still in my "Lord of the Rings" phase, and I had forgotten how wonderful these stories and characters are.

After reading this fabulous and entirely enjoyable book, I will go back and catch up on all that I have missed. I can only imagine that a devotee of these books will be elated with the result, if someone like me could find the story so enjoyable.

I was immediately drawn in by the mysterious diary and dark, forbidding love story that is unearthed from the very beginning. And from there the writing just got better and better.

You won't be disappointed.

I almost forgot - another wonderful element of this book is the portrayal of females. They're the perfect balance of strength and sensitivity without sacrificing integrity. They are every bit equal to their male counterparts and then some. Of course there are characters that have questionable agendas, but the balance is refreshing as well as entertaining. There are exceptional role models all around.

This is a very well written book by Brooks. And is probably one of the darker books he has written. It starts out as the same old, same old. A new adventure is found, this time Aphenglow Elessedil, a druid, finds evidence of where the missing elfstones can be found and she brings this information back to the Druids at Paranor where they decide to undertake the quest. Khyber Elessedil the Ard Rhys heads to The Hadeshorn and figures out she must employ an Ohmsford, and of course a Leah comes along too. So it all sounds like something Mr. Brooks has done time over and over again in his previous books. Well don't mess with a good thing when it's done well, and it is done well with this book. He's taken his craft and honed it into a much stronger story than he's told in the past.

I won't give away any more spoilers, but let's just say I think this is the strongest work I've read by Brooks in a while. And I'll say it's not all happy and roses here, this is a serious piece of work that has some very dark pieces. I've already started the second book and it gets darker still. This book and series is reminding me a lot of The Elfstones of Shannara, which in my opinion is his best work. This is good stuff, and I'm glad to see Terry still has a wonderful storytelling touch!

This is the first book in a trilogy (parts 2 and 3 to come soon) that for some reason reminds me of a cross between lord of the rings and discworld (but not as humorous).
In a time when the world was young, when magic was more than myth, an Elven girl named Aleia met and fell in love with a Darkling boy from the Void. They would meet in secret, but a day came when Aleia awoke and found a note he left behind. To her dismay, she discovered that he had stolen two of the five Elfstones, the powerful wards that protected the land of the Elves. This story (without trying to give too much away) is the retrieval of the elf stones and to stop them getting into the wrong hands.
The characters are well written and there are complex sub-plots and adventures taking place throughout.
When I first started reading this book I didn't know if I would like it but the more I read, the more drawn into the characters and happenings of this world I became. It's a good read and a good distraction and I'm looking forward to the other parts coming out, but it is no lord of the rings.

This is the new trilogy in the Shannara stories. It takes place about a century after the last book. The hunt for the elfstones is still in place. We start when an elf druid, Aphenglow Elessedil, stumbles upon a lost diary that contains the story about how the elfstones, except the blue and black one, were lost. Aphen sets up a quest to hunt the elfstones down.

Although the Druid Order seems to be past it's prime, there are still members that are trying to keep things working. The Federation is intent on removing magic from the lands. Almost instantly, when the diary was discovered, they step up and start causing problems for Aphen and the Druid Order. Then creatures from the Forbidden are seen along the way, creatures that should be locked in the Forbidden. Is the magic loosing power? Is something else going on?

I have seen Terry Brooks' books and have a couple that I have been meaning to read, but I'm sad to admit that I have yet to do so. This was my first adventure and I'm definitely going to be getting the rest of this series and starting from the beginning. I got sucked into the story and was left irritated that I had to wait for the next book to see what happened next.

For those that have not read any of Terry Brooks' books, this is a good one to start with. Don't miss this book.

Shawn Kovacich
Author and Creator of numerous books and DVD's.

Wards of Faerie by Terry Brooks

Another tale of Shannara with familiar settings and some what familiar characters on a quest.

This book describes a quest by the Ard Rhys of the Druids in a search for the long missing Elfstones. The Elfstones were lost in the past and their powerful magic could swing the balance of power for whoever finds them. The Druids feel that they are the only impartial power that can keep the Elfstones from being used for evil.

Politics seem to play a part in every book I have read recently. The Druids are distrusted by the humans and the elves. The Druids who are elves are shunned by their community. The struggle for power seems to be the main theme of the book.

The characters were not as memorable as I recall Shannara charaters. There was potential in the Ohmsfords, Aphenglow, Bombax and Cymrian. None of them were fleshed out to the point where they will be remembered as clearly as Shea Ohmsford.

I recommend the book.

I've been a fan of Terry Brooks for about 25 years now, and this book was an engaging adventure in the Four Lands. Having said that, it does have a couple of shortcomings, but if you've read and enjoyed his other Shannara books, you will like this one.

The basic premise of this novel is that an ancient source of magic may have been rediscovered, and the Druids search for this long-lost magic before it can fall into the hands of those who would misuse it. Along the way, they face danger, both from humans and monsters, expected and unexpected. In the storied Four Lands, we are introduced to some new generations of characters, and re-introduced to some familiar ones.

I liked the story telling, and a return to old haunts. I thought the author created good tension, and I *love* the fact that the many stories in this world happen generations apart, and society and technology actually develop between stories. It is rare that an author takes the time to continue to build an evolving world rater than just replace familiar characters with newer versions and leaving the land as it always was before (this means you, Raymond E. Feist...). While some of the surprises are not shocking (I saw a couple of them coming from far away) they are decent.

My basic problem with this book is that it *feels* too short. There have been other books in the series that are as short (not many) but this one really feels like the author didn't tell a full novel's worth of story here. And it's not because it is only the intro for a trilogy, because he's told other multi-novel tales before. This one just felt like he would have been better served by making this story cover two books.... there's not enough there to divide it into three. In fact, looking back, the Sword of Shannara was almost twice as long as this book, the Elfstones had 200 more pages, and the Wishsong had about 130 pages more. It's almost like the author shorts readers on the story so he can keep from telling the complete tale and stretch it out over three novels. (OK, maybe I'm cynical, but see for yourself, if you doubt)

All told, this is a fun time, but I'd wait until the paperback book, and then only if I'd read the other Shannara books and really liked them.

It has been awhile since I read the first Shannara series, so I decided to give this one a try. I came away with the opinion that Brooks really is not up to par at all with the best fantasy writers. This is really in the "young adult fantasy" genre and there are many in that genre that are much better than this. Let's start with the characters. Some are mildly interesting, but they are all pretty static and Brooks throws in a lot of prose trying to convince us how emotionally affected the main ones are, but I didn't buy it and mostly brushed pass those wasted pages. The plot of the whole three book series could be summarized in six or seven bullet points, and so much of the rest just seems to be filler without much depth or details. Let's face it, the Shannara world is flimsy. Brooks does not take time to create the cultures, bureaucracies, etc., of the Fourth Lands, instead choosing to spend time trying to make one-dimensional characters seem not so. And the secondary characters are just fodder for killing off in an attempt to make things seem dangerous.
The plot was good enough that there were a few climax points in the books that I enjoyed, but even these were fairly weak. All it all, I think the Shannara world just lacks the depth to pull of so many series. Although it is an attempt at "Epic Fantasy," it comes up way short, which is why I think most adults and also discerning teen readers should not waste their time on this series.

Shannara is one of the best fantasy series around. While others get bogged down in endless volumes, here at least, you can start with any of the self-contained trilogies or stand-alone books in the series. I'm not going to give a lot away here, but if you are a fan of Tolkien's world, Shannara is a no-brainer. Elves, dwarves and men and many fantasic creatures populate Shannara. Brooks' style will quickly draw you in, and when you finish this set, you'll no doubt go buy the rest. Either go back and get the first, The Sword of Shannara, or the trilogy previous to this one, The High Druid of Shannara. For another great fantasy series, try Daughter of Light.

I love fantasy stories. Especially ones that involve elves, trolls, dragons and magic. This novel by Terry Brooks did not disappoint. Terry takes us on an adventure that crosses many lands with crazy terrifying creatures and enemies. He also shares tender relationships between family, friends and even lovers (no "R" rated moments). This book is filled with many courageous moments that aren't overly gory. It's main thread is goodness with a sprinkling of ethics - the heroin delves into hard decisions that will affect many. What choice will be the best for all? Will she be able to keep the greater good her focus even if those closest to her feel differently? This is a great novel for younger readers. My only complaint is there are a lot of characters introduced throughout this novel. I'm sure this is because it's a series and all will come together as readers continue the adventure in the next book(s). Great read! I absolutely recommend it!

A little behind on my Shannara reading. Knew this series has been out, but only recently picked it up. So, Wards of Faerie. It's typical Brooks Shannara with a slight twist. It is the first time the Druids come to the foreground as true main characters and on a mission. It's not like Allanon popping in and out. It's not like the other series where there may be a Druid there, or someone who has to restart the Druids, it's all about the Druids. So, Aphen Ellesedil finds some reading material that tell of lost Elfstones. Deciding it is a true story, she brings it to Paranor. And thus begins our quest. This is a perfect first act to a 3 act story. We get the setup and introductions we need, and get everything set in motion. This has a lot of potential, for me, to be a great series, at least based on what I've read so far. If you are new to Terry Brooks, go back and read the series that lead to this point; things will make more sense. With Shannara, you really do need where it came from to understand what you are reading and where it is going. Yes, I am a little more of a die-hard fan, but even I have thought the Legends of Shannara duo was a little under par from the books starting with Sword of Shannara and ending with Straken. That timeframe for me, and into "the future," is where I believe his best writing is.
I like the fact we still have the Federation out there and them being them, in all their crabbiness and general mistrust of things not magic. ***VAGUE MINOR SPOILER*** Stoon's actions at the end of the book makes me want to read more to see where 1)he is going as a character, and his motives (which I have my opinions), and 2) who put him up to it, if anyone.
I think fans of Brooks, for the most part, will call this classic work of his. Don't get me wrong, I have minor nitpicks about character progression, and a couple other minor things, but overall, I love it. Time to start Book 2.

Ah, Shannara. It's so nice to be back there. I remember reading the first Shannara back in 1979 and have followed most of them since then. There is a reason that Terry Brooks is still writing Shannara books. They are good!

The plot though has not changed too much from series to series, but the characters are always interesting. This book starts 100 years after the High Druid trilogy, where elves are still at war with humans, and as humans get the upper hand the magic of the land is starting to fade.

A young druid uncovers a diary pointing to an ancient lost source of magical power. Lo and behold, the adventuring begins with all the usual elements that you would find in a Terry Brooks trilogy.

At times, I did feel as though I had read it before, which is unfortunate.

This review is based on an Advance Uncorrected Proof supplied by the the store Vine program.

Wards of Faerie is the first novel in a new trilogy set in the Shannara world. Set approximately 100 years after the disappearance of Grianne Ohmsford, it follows the story of Aphenglow Elessedil, granddaughter of the eleven king, and Druid of the fourth order.

This is yet another great Shannara story. The many characters, interesting storylines, and action makes for a book that is hard to put down. If you like fantasy,I can't imagine that you've missed the other Shannara books, but if you have, I think this one is an ok place to start. If you're a Shannara fan, it's another can't miss.

I am one going to be one of odd folks in saying that I did not enjoy the first Sword of Shannara series when I first encountered it in the summer of 1979. I don't even think that I got through the first book, because I found it rather boring. Now that I am reading the new series which does make very good use of traditional Faerie and Elven lore, I am giving very serious thought to re-examining the rest of Brooks' books.

This series, which opens nearly a century after the last one ends, Brooks seems to have really improved in his storytelling. The story opens with the discovery of the diary which mentions the Elvenstones, all of which have been lost with the exception of two. Aphenglow Elessdil sets about finding the other stones. Immediately, the reader and Aphenglow are thrown headlong into the story and events are set into motion. Because the books are set in an almost post apocalyptic futureverse where technology has mostly been lost and the rediscovery of some of those technologies giving the sense of "magic" - in addition to the old school definition of magic, of course, with Elves and Druids and a complex world-creation that is similar to what Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings" or George R.R. Martin's "Game of Thrones" does, but perhaps with a different sort of flair. The pacing is very good, with plenty of intrigue and action and there are cliff hangers by the score that will keep you up past your bedtime in order to find out what happens next.

This book is decidedly shorter than the first of the Shannara series. I think breaking the bits up into smaller pieces makes it more profitable both for author and publisher, but it is rather frustrating and it does feel rather like an anticlimax to be tethererd until you can get your hands on the next book.

I am so glad I got this book from the library and didn't purchase. I have been a fan of Mr. Brooks since middle school when my mom picked up The Sword and Elfstones books at a yard sale. The sword and heritage books were great...couldn't ask for more. I have sporadically read some of the others but just couldn't get into most of them. I picked this one up hoping it would be more interesting. It was not. The characters are not the least bit interesting, Aphenglow seems just plain silly...she has to ask the Ard Rhys's secretary for advice about the keep? Shouldn't a druid know more about paranor than the secretary? What happened to the druids being wise? I miss the brave, wise, tough characters from the old books. I will probably finish reading this series but will not buy the books.

This was my first read of 2015 and I was definitely not disappointed. It was action packed and engaging. I can't wait to see what happens next in this epic quest. I am downloading the rest of the series today. I finished this novel in an evening! ?

My only critique is the book is so action packed that there are some characters that aren't as well developed as others because the author wasn't able to fit it in the story line.

I am starting to think that Terry Brooks can do no wrong. It is a brilliant fantasy with all the required elements: amazing fantastical world, interesting characters with depth and unexpected layers, love, betrayal, love again, war, magic, life and death decisions, all gloriously engrossing to read about. The inner child in me lives on fantasy. I did not have any complaints about this book. I found it easy to step into.Brook's writing style and his masterful use of language are a treat.The dishes are never going to get done in my house. :)

I don't know if anything frustrates me more than a good cliffhanger! I want to know now, not wait another year for the next installation to come out! I have always enjoyed Terry Brooks' books, particularly the Shannara installations, and was excited to see this one nor was I disappointed.

I will say right off the bat that if you are new to Brooks this book is not the best place to start. I found myself wanting to reread all the previous Shannara books as a bit of a refresher because there were many references to previous characters and places -- much more than I recall Brooks using in previous books.

The story and action in this novel are fast-paced and make for an engrossing read. I did find the foreshadowing to be a bit thin and seemingly predictable as to where Brooks is headed with the story ultimately. Let's hope I am wrong and there will be some surprises in the upcoming books! All in all I think this is a good addition to the Shannara books and am eagerly awaiting the next installment.

I was disappointed initially with this book, for the simple fact the store had it listed as being an Art book and it contains no artwork whatsoever. I see they have changed the genre listing to what it should have been all along. In spite of this confusion, the book is, like all of Terry Brooks novels, wonderful. It added more depth to Shannara and the world he created. I read the Shannara books when they were first published and I love them all, this one included. Sorry, no spoilers here, you'll just have to take my word.

I like Terry Brooks, although admittedly I haven't read his work since junior high. I was really looking forward to reviewing the graphic novel but received a galley proof of the text instead. I made an attempt to get through it, but my tastes have changed since junior high and I'm not as much of a fan anymore. What I read was similar in style and tone to "Swords" and "Elfstones", and my ambivalence about the text is more my fault than the authors. If you are a fan of his work you'll like the new book as well.

I was really impressed with this book. Terry Brooks brings the world of Shannara back in a way that had been lacking with his previous two books. I particularly enjoyed the character development and the intriguing plot twists that were hinted at in this book, in regards to the Ellcrys and elfstones (I won't say any more than that!). If you're looking for a fantasy book that you won't be able to put down until you've reached the last page, then pick this book up!

Thank goodness Terry Brooks loves to write or those of us who love his books would be in big trouble!

He does write to a certain formula, but his stories are so well written, and his characters so believable, that we fall in love with them all over again with every new story line.

I am looking forward to the next two books with great anticipation.

Terry Brooks has another hit with the Wards of Faerie. Fans who have been waiting for more in the Shannara Legacy will not be disappointed. As always, you are hooked into the story from page one. This a another page turner that you will find hard to put down. While it helps to have read the other books in Brooks series, it is not necessary to enjoy the Wards of Faerie. The story stands on its own. Enthusiasts and new fans alike will enjoy this captivating story.

Some of the magic in this series has gotten old, yet the characters and story line are entertaining.
As always, we are on a quest, searching for something sacred and lost, facing monsters and evil beings. Our heroine, an elf turned Druid, is captivating and brave.
I won't spoil the story...
However, those of you who remember the kingdom for sale series, might wish for something as refreshing from this author once again...

As a new novelist, this is a fantastic series as a brilliant author. Thanks to you Mr. Terry Brooks for such a remarkable masterpiece!

Anthony D. Woods
c/o Velvet Tears: Breaking the Silence

After being pretty underwhelmed by "The Measure of the Magic," I was somewhat concerned I'd be equally disappointed in "Wards of Faerie." But no fear, the Terry Brooks I loved to read is back in full measure with this wonderful novel. I was pulled in from the beginning sentence down to the last paragraph. I pretty much sat down and read it all in one go, I couldn't put the book down. I was able to obtain an Advanced Reader Copy, so I don't want to give it away and spoil it for anyone. But suffice to say, if you are a fan of the Shannara series (Sword, Heritage, Voyage of the Jerle Shannara, & High Druid) you will definitely enjoy "Wards of Faerie."

I've been reading Terry Brooks for 20+ years. I've read every fantasy novel he's released. Along with Tolkien and Robert Jordan, Mr. Brooks has been one of "my" authors. He's one of those authors I feel very attached to as he's one of the first I ever read as a child. If anything I've been a fan-boy of his, pushing him on people I know.

This is the first book of his that I've been disappointed with. It's not "horrible" or anything like that but I'm about 80% of the way through and I think I'm done. I've felt like stopping several times but I am just not interested in listening to it anymore. Maybe the last 20% would have totally flipped my feelings on their head but I doubt it.

To start the book covers has many extremely familiar pieces. Evil Prime Minsters, Prime Minister Assassins, lost magics, the Chosen, mistrust of Druids, mysterious party members, the Chosen...etc. I get that things like the Ohmsfords and the Wishsong are going to be in every book. I'm ok with some of that (obviously or I wouldn't have read all his other books) but it's gotten to a point where 90% of this book is extremely familiar. It's all just a very obvious template that he's following at this point. Believe me, it hurts to say that.

I just feel like this book was written very lazily. I admire how prolific Terry Brooks is with his work. Waiting 5 years for a Game Of Thrones book is awful. Getting to read a new Brooks book every year or so is wonderful, but I have to start feeling like a lot could be gained by taking a longer time with each book. The term "just cranking them out" keeps coming to my mind. Here is a great example of what I'm talking about. There are no real spoilers here but I will say that at one point in the book a druid is being pursued by someone. To slow this attacker down the Druid "sends an entangling magic" at them. That is how it's described in the book. An "entangling magic". That has got to be the most generic use of magic I've ever heard. This isn't vines growing up to wrap around the attacker's legs, or wind buffeting them to make them cower down, or any other million different ways you could describe magic that hinders someone's movement.

Am I a better writer than Terry Books? Of course I'm not. Could I write a story that anyone on earth would want to read...nope, sure can't. But you can't tell me that description is anything but being utterly lazy. This is "magic" in it's most generic form. It's not even mysterious like something Gandalf might do. It's a cure-all that can be anything at any time with no rules or restrictions. It's very watered down and I'm sure kids would love it but being a fan of high fantasy, I feel like it's just being lazy or rushed.

Of course one sentence isn't enough to bring a book down, this is just an example of lazy writing that I feel coats the entire book.

The reader of the audio-book is pretty good as well. She has a nice voice and does enough with character voices to make each character feel at least a bit unique. However, outside of just not being awful there isn't anything I feel the reader does that adds anything to the book.

Sorry, I'm not a hater. I love Terry Brooks and have read every fantasy book he's written over the last 25 years, many of them 3+ times. This one though is finally watered down enough that I can't recommend it other than to say "eh, it's not awful".

I am so confused... i have read all of the shannara books.. and i cant see how this book leads off from the last book "The Measure of the Magic" to me it seems that it goes back some thousands of years and leads in another direction. damn am i confused. I am not saying the book isnt good,, i just like thinks in order and i dont know where to fit this book in the series. someone help

I have already reviewed the Shannara series as excellent. All the books are excellent, have well developed characters that are very real, and the suspense is intense. Another great aspect--you cannot anticipate the final outcome. I would recommend them to anyone who like good fiction, of the fantasy worlds variety.

I'm at a loss to understand how anyone could give this predictable story a good rating. I've never read any of Terry Brooks books and had no idea I was going to spend the hours listening to this one on dvd and find that it had no ending - just cut off in the middle of the story with no resolution. Thank God I just got this for free from the library and didn't pay for it.

Sadly this is the least enthralling story I have ever read by Mr. Brooks. There are too many characters given too little time, leaving them indistinct and uninteresting. Many of the story elements, scenarios and characters seem copied and pasted out of previous novels. There is another murderous Prime Minister from the Federation, another half human shape shifter, another love interest between the Leah and Ohmsford characters, more isolationist Elves and grizzled Rover airship designers, dangerous searches for lost magic lead by obsessive Druids. I actually struggled to complete the book and can't imagine spending money on the rest of this series, which is deeply disappointing because I have read the entire Shannara series multiple times and wanted to be optimistic but apparently I have read this book before

Terry brings it all together in this one! Good stories more defined and now more druids!!!!!! thank the heavens the druids are the coolest to read about i think. the first king was great for that and now we have this new edition!) People complained about characters not really being used but more so added in because that what terry had to do (leah, and the twins). They are being set up for the other two books comming out. so many characters you can attach yourself to have come out in the first installment. let the story begin i say! definitly recommend and hope you love it as much as i did.

This book was rich with new characters and bonds and mystery. It was refreshing as always to read Terry Brooks because of how wonderful the story telling is and how masterfully crafted the characters are with history and background and the dedication to a rich story full of all the complex good and evil and developed legends. It was smart and rich. Loved it!

I have already reviewed the Shannara series as excellent. All the books are excellent, have well developed characters that are very real, and the suspense is intense. Another great aspect--you cannot anticipate the final outcome. I would recommend them to anyone who like good fiction, of the fantasy worlds variety.

I'm at a loss to understand how anyone could give this predictable story a good rating. I've never read any of Terry Brooks books and had no idea I was going to spend the hours listening to this one on dvd and find that it had no ending - just cut off in the middle of the story with no resolution. Thank God I just got this for free from the library and didn't pay for it.

Sadly this is the least enthralling story I have ever read by Mr. Brooks. There are too many characters given too little time, leaving them indistinct and uninteresting. Many of the story elements, scenarios and characters seem copied and pasted out of previous novels. There is another murderous Prime Minister from the Federation, another half human shape shifter, another love interest between the Leah and Ohmsford characters, more isolationist Elves and grizzled Rover airship designers, dangerous searches for lost magic lead by obsessive Druids. I actually struggled to complete the book and can't imagine spending money on the rest of this series, which is deeply disappointing because I have read the entire Shannara series multiple times and wanted to be optimistic but apparently I have read this book before

Terry brings it all together in this one! Good stories more defined and now more druids!!!!!! thank the heavens the druids are the coolest to read about i think. the first king was great for that and now we have this new edition!) People complained about characters not really being used but more so added in because that what terry had to do (leah, and the twins). They are being set up for the other two books comming out. so many characters you can attach yourself to have come out in the first installment. let the story begin i say! definitly recommend and hope you love it as much as i did.

This book was rich with new characters and bonds and mystery. It was refreshing as always to read Terry Brooks because of how wonderful the story telling is and how masterfully crafted the characters are with history and background and the dedication to a rich story full of all the complex good and evil and developed legends. It was smart and rich. Loved it!

One-sentence synopsis: A bunch of people with vaguely Welsh- and Gaelic-sounding names go on a quest in search of the Elfstones.

I made the mistake of ordering this from Vine because it was erroneously listed as "Comics and Graphic Novels" and I thought it would be a quick, easy review (graphic novels being so insubstantial.) No such luck. But hey, I like fantasy. Even though I've never read any Shannara books before, I should still be able to enjoy this, right?

Well, to an extent.

My first complaint is technical in nature, which is probably not fair because the advance copy will still be edited before the final edition goes to press. However my nit-picking issue is not about typographical or grammatical errors. It's a certain stumbling inelegance of the prose ... I wouldn't go so far as to call it "malaprop" but it is the literary equivalent of a scenic highway marred with potholes every few hundred yards. The prose is just .. CLUNKY. The phrasing is off somehow, and I found myself frequently wincing and saying "Really? Is that really the way you wanted to say that?" Maybe editors will smooth it out before final publication, maybe not. I would expect such a well-known author to write better than this, but I've never read Terry Brooks before, so maybe this is his style.

My second impression is that Mr. Brooks is resting on his laurels. Perhaps it's my fault for being new to Shannara, but it seems that an awful lot is being taken for granted here. This is a world that already exists, so it's not being built before my eyes. Lots of cultural and geographical details are mentioned without being described or explained. (Case in point: Airship rigging - lots of aero-nautical jargon without the slightest clue what any of it looks like or how it is supposed to work.) This book may be a thrill for the longtime Shannara fan returning to old familiar haunts, but it does not stand well on its own. Too much necessary information is missing.

The story is interesting but it didn't come across as terribly clever or original. Most of the important events I could predict many pages before they happened. The plot moves quickly; so quickly it actually feels rushed. Actions are too abrupt. The author isn't taking enough time to really develop his characters and concepts. There is no sense of the unfolding of events with the natural passage of time. The characters are woefully undeveloped, and Mr. Brooks has committed one of fiction's deadliest sins by using his Omniscient Narrator voice to TELL us things about the characters which are not borne out by their behavior. In particular, the villain Drust Chazhul is described when we first meet him as a mastermind: A patient behind-the-scenes schemer who plays a long game, and plays to win. His subsequent actions demonstrate him to be exactly the opposite: A rash, reckless and impatient idiot who doesn't think before he acts. Who does the narrator think he's fooling? He also tends to pause the action and spend time justifying characters' decisions at times when they need no rationalization, or when their concerns could have been more effectively conveyed through action or dialogue. There are other inconsistencies, such as a certain rule about membership in the Druid order which is totally disregarded in two cases but enforced later when it's convenient for the plot. There's also reference to an "ancient" magic that was forged during the lifetime of the characters, which left me a bit confused. How ancient can it really be if the oldest living person is about 100 and she remembers it? I'll let the reader figure out what I'm talking about because I think some of those details might be spoilers.

Still, the book isn't bad. It has its moments of suspense, and times when it _almost_ evoked a sense of wonder, but overall I found it to be somewhat lackluster compared to other fantasy novels I've read. I'm sure it is more of a treat for fans who are already familiar with the world of Shannara, but unfortunately I can only review it based on its own merits - and it does not merit more than a 3.

I am a huge fan of Terry! This book is about loss and betrayal. The characters are strong and the plot is unique and unpredictable. I could not put the book down! It's a great read! One of the best by this author to date!

Terry Brooks knows how to engage his readers by creating a meaningful quest and then drawing his fans into the journey. I don't think his readers will be disappointed. Looking forward to the next two books. At least we don't have to wait years before continuing the story, unlike Game of Thrones.

One of my favorite books of the Shannara world so far. It is jam packed with so much of the lore and adventure I've come to expect from Terry Brooks, and it leaves you wishing the story would never end. I can't wait for the next one in the series!

Terry Brooks is at it again. After a long wait we have another great adventure. We are again looking for the magical Elfstones.
Those of us who have been Terry Brook fans for many years will really enjoy the full cast of characters. This is fantasy at its best. Thanks Terry.

I absolutely love this book! I've been an avid Brooks fan for 13 years and the duology was a big miss with me so it's nice to see he's back to his old standards. The only reason I give this book a 4 and not a 5 is because of the latest batch of Ohmsfords, Railing and Redden. I hate the pair of them with a fiery passion, they come off as really poor imitation of the Weasley twins in the Harry Potter series with of Herry's inner turmoil thrown in.

I have yet to be disappointed by Terry Brooks and he is on his way again. I will say this book jumped in to revealing more than I feel Terry has in the past so I hope that mystery and unknown picks up. That all being said I am really enjoying another adventure by the great story teller Terry Brooks.

Overall: I don't think that this is Terry Brook's best work. The language and writing is expertly done but both the plot and characters feel like they were lazily done. I had so much trouble reading this book because it felt that all the author's energy was on world-building and everything else was lacking. There is no romance in this book (and I mean none). If you want to read a bestseller novel by Terry Brooks, this is not the book to read.

Characters: There is such a huge cast of characters that it is hard to really connect to any of them. There wasn't any emphasis on individual character development or growth. Basically, the characters that you meet in the beginning will behave the same exact way at the end. Aphenglow and Bombax are supposedly in love with each other but I've never seen less chemistry between two characters in a novel. Not only does it not feel like they love each other, they don't even seem to have any care or worry for the other. Drustan Chazhul is the villain and he is about as developed as a bucket of rocks. He hates magic. Wants to destroy everyone who uses magic. His bark is much scarier than his bite - it feels like his 2nd in commander is actually the one pulling the strings and Drustan is merely there just to be there.

Plot: The story begins with Aphenglow discovering an old diary that hints at the missing elfstones. Aphenglow tells the Druid leader (Ard Rhys) and the Druids go on a mission to retrieve them - without her. Meanwhile, Aphenglow's family is very upset that she is a Druid and this weights heavily on her mind while she is put in charge of protecting Paranor in Ard Rhys's absence. This is the main plot of the story but it is hidden beneath chapters and chapters of introducing minor characters and sub-plots, none of which get resolved by the end. There are "twists" but none of them are hard to figure out. There are a lot of coincidences and you never really feel like the danger is real.

Ending: Cliffhanger. Still have zero clue about the elfstones. I won't be checkout out future books in this series...but I'll probably give Terry Brooks another chance and read one of his other series.

*I received a copy of this book for review from the publisher.

I've been reading the Shannara series since the early 90's, and have been a huge fan ever since I picked up "Sword of Shannara". I've alway found it exciting to return to this world on every new release, and once again Terry Brooks doesn't disappoint. I found "Wards of Faerie" another fine read.

I remember reading the Shannara series when I was studying at university at 16yrs ago. I loved them. It was great to immerse myself back in the world of Terry's creation. I really enjoyed the characters, the story and Terry's smooth writing style. I can't wait to read the next one.

Aphenglow and Khyber seem two of the most feckless protagonists of any of Brooks' books, to the point I almost wanted to root for their enemies. I would almost rate their characterizations as being sexist.

It is very enjoyable to return to the world of Shannara, and Brook's writing is smooth and never gets in the way. Readers new to the world of Shannara may have trouble finding their way, though, and should probably go back to earlier books in the series before tackling this series.

For some authors they tend to phase out over time. Not Terry. This latest in his Shannara series is great! I can't wait for the next book in the series. The pace is good and character development is excellent. Keep up the good work!

The book was enjoyable continuing the trend of his previous books. They are starting to feel like Louis L'Amour books...if you've read 1, you've read them all...just different names and slight different plots. I really enjoy his books though, and it was a quick read.

I've been a fan of Terry Brooks for 25 years, but his latest effort is a huge disappointment. He's sadly out of ideas. Not a single passage that gripped me, you can see everything coming. it's the same formula of his last several series. Sorry, Terry, but it's time to retire.

I'm not sure how the publisher defends the price of the kindle version being higher than a new paperback version. Why are these guys not passing on the savings of an ebook to the consumer or at least splitting it 50/50?