King's Cure

Fanuilh: 4

ISBN: 0-441-00789-9 Order from: Amazon.com Barnes & Noble.com

Another installment of Liam Rhenford and his familiar Fanuilh brings a fast-paced mystery with more suspense than magic, a solid world-view, and couple of fascinating characters.

Reviewed by David on May 06, 2001

Genre: Fantasy (Mystery, Intrigue)

Synopsis: Liam Rhenford, a bit of a vagabond in the past, has settled down and even became an occasional investigator for the Duke. Now, he has traveled to the royal capital on an errand for his patron. The King's power is weak, and many people and provinces pay scant attention to the monarch. And yet, faced with the uncertainty and strife that may follow the ailing and childless King's death, most commoners and nobles alike prey for his continued health.

Rhenford's routine mission becomes deadly when he becomes ensnared in one of the many intrigues sprouting during the King's illness. Not even knowing the cause, Rhenford becomes the target of murderous rogues as well as a frighteningly effective police manhunt.

Full Review: Much as in previous books, the adventures of Rhenford and his accidentally-acquired familiar, the tiny dragon Fanuilh, exhibit solidity and plausibility unusual in fantasies. While magic plays a role in the plot, it is relatively minor. Considerable attention is given to the thinking, under stress, by several intelligent people, including Rhenford and his local adversary—one who proves to be both formidable and intriguing. The resolution was a little weak, but the mystery was solid and well investigated.

This novel lacks the freedom of imagination and emotional intensity of some fantasies. However, the well-crafted world, with plenty of detail, occasional glints of understated humor and pleasure, and realistic, interesting people supplies a welcome sense of satisfaction.

I recommend starting this series with the first book, Fanuilh. If you like it, by all means snap up the rest of the series.

There is more information on the series at the author's web site.

Overall: 6; Plot: 6; Characters: 6; Style: 5.5; World-building: 6.5; Originality: 7;

ISBN: 0-441-00789-9 Order from: Amazon.com Barnes & Noble.com