Elizabeth Haydon, The Assassin King

The Assassin King

Elizabeth Haydon

Tor, December 26 2006, $25.95

ISBN: 0765305658

The death of Llauron has shook up more than just his dragon kin, as the ancient wyrms know it impacts all species by leaving a void in protecting the earth. Dragons hold a rite of passage for Llauron and convene a meeting at the site of his horrific death to determine what to do.

At about the same time, the F'dor demons are resurfacing, spreading their evil wherever they walk amongst humans. Talquist thinks the time is right for him to invade the northern lands so his realm can grow. Alliances are forming between the demons and the humans, though neither side trusts the other, especially once the conquest is complete.

Rhapsody realizes her beloved Middle Kingdom people are in danger with the death of her dragon "father-in-law", from the demons and the southern armies. She and her spouse Ashe begin countermeasures as war is imminent, by calling upon their allies of yore Grunthor and Achmed for help at a time when her "mother-in-law" Anwyn the dragon wants her dead.

THE ASSASSIN KING is a well written epic fantasy, but slower than the previous Symphony of Ages tales, as much of the early pages recount what has passed in other novels or the various sides preparing for war. The storyline is character driven, as the Anwyn, the F'dor, Talquist and Rhapsody know a confrontation is coming soon. Newcomers should obtain the previous tales (at least the last one - ELEGY FOR A LOST STAR), which is an interesting look at a fantasy war, mostly from the preparation stages preceding the combat. Elizabeth Haydon is a master fantasist.