The Lightstone
David Zindell
Tor, Jun 2006, $25.95
ISBN 0765311291

War is the norm between the kingdoms that make up Ea as the monarchs skirmish over ancient petty grievances to long dead ancestors. However, as they waste resources battling one another, the evil Morjin has begun a campaign to rule the entire land of Ea. His minion seeks the Lightstone cup that will enable the freeing of the Lord of Lies which will spread subsequent havoc across Ea.

King Kiritan of Alonia invokes a quest to find the missing Lightstone before Morjin obtains it. Hundreds of knights from the various kingdoms arrive. Knight Valashu Elahad, the seventh son of the Mesh ruler, had has visions of the Cup of Heaven so though he loathes fighting, he begins the journey to Alonia, accompanied by Master Juwain and Brother Maram. Four others postulate join the team even though Val is probably the one as he is the seventh son that the ancient prophesies claim will slay the evil dragon.

This opening gamut is a solid Tolkien like fantasy that stars flawed heroes knowing that destiny has plunged them into the abyss something that most of them would not have volunteered if other choices existed. Especially interesting is the young champion who goes from debating an easy spoiled life in the palace though as the youngest son to finding excitement when the dreams force his hand. The use of minstrels to provide the past adds to a feel of a genuine world on the brink of a good vs. evil confrontation. Though like many fantasies, the ending leaves the audience hanging around for the next novel, fans of Tolkien will appreciate this opening coming of age gambit in what looks like will be a delightful epic.

Harriet Klausner