AI Library Poster Experiment

As is known, I try to avoid discussing real-world issues here on my not always entirely humble blog. However, just as I performed a deep-dive experiment regarding AI's potential in world in Fantasy literature and art, I wanted to see was use it could be in allowing librarians to truly customize their workspace. So I tried using AI to see if it can make good library posters using my favorites quotes... and the results have been amazing. Here are two of the best. 

Again, I am very well aware of, and share, the concerns regarding Artificial Intelligence. Yet I also believe that, like anything, its potential for good can be incredible if used with integrity – and I will use any tool available to me that benefits my students.

"It takes a lot of courage to release the familiar and seemingly secure, to embrace the new. But there is no real security in what is no longer meaningful. There is more security in the adventurous and exciting, for in movement there is life, and in change there is power." - Alan Cohen 

My father and I just finished rereading The Dark Is Rising

My father and I just finished rereading The Dark Is Rising, book #2 of the Sequence of the same name written by Susan Cooper.

As Louisa May Alcott said, "Some books are so familiar that reading them is like being home again." Such is the case here, The Dark Is Rising (both the book and series) being for is one of our highest and holiest pinnacles of Fantasy, an Arthurian Epic that helped forge our love of the genre and, for me, crafted my view of the world almost as much as The Lord of the Rings. Thus reading it again, walking and questing ones more with Old Ones of the Light Will Stanton and Merriman Lyon was and remains the among highest of literary joys.

"When the Dark comes rising, six shall turn it back;
Three from the circle, three from the track;
Wood, bronze, iron; water, fire, stone;
Five will return, and one go alone.

Iron for the birthday, bronze carried long;
Wood from the burning, stone out of song;
Fire in the candle-ring, water from the thaw;
Six Signs the circle, and the grail gone before.

Fire on the mountain shall find the harp of gold
Played to wake the Sleepers, oldest of the old;
Power from the greenwitch, lost beneath the sea;
All shall find the light at last, silver on the tree."

I have started Dragon Called, Book One of Ava Richardson's Deadweed Dragons

Arguably the most prolific Epic Fantasy author of the age, with over two dozen series to her name, Ava Richardson's calling card is the roar of mighty Dragons and their Riders. She has also been on my to-read list for far to long, so I end that by beginning her book that first drew my eye.

I have started Dragon Called, Book One of Ava Richardson's Deadweed Dragons.

From castaway to sold away, to Dragon Thief and now, for the moment, runaway, Dayie has certainly lived a full if not exactly enviable life for a fifteen-year-old girl. So now the question is – since permanently hiding a soon-to-be hatched fledgling Dragon is impossible – can she take up the mantle of trainee Dragon Rider in a place where the 'bond' between Dragon and Rider is characterized more by acrimony than affection? That the Training Hall seals eggs for the purpose of combating Deadweed may have something to do which that of course, which adds another question. Since Deadweed comes by its name honestly, can Dayie kill the weed before it kills her and countless others?

Tis good to finally be starting Ava Richardson and, hopefully, this is but the first of many posts marking my journeys into her worlds, getting to know her Dragons.

Official Book Review: The Equinox Tor, Book Three of David Doersch's Chronicles of the Raven

I have finished The Equinox Tor, Book Three of David Doersch's Chronicles of the Raven and, as the author requested, now give it an Official Book Review.

Book One was called The Gathering Storm, and The Equinox Tor could just as easily have been called "The Storm Breaks," for not since Robert Jordan's A Memory of Light have I read a book that was one long heart-stopping climax. Heart-wrenching at times too, for the sadistic Angor blood-shamans and their Barbár puppets shied from no depravity in their efforts to claim Tor and Green Mount for the Shadow Lord. As Latrans the so-called Fool told them though, "We're back", so the Raven Corvus Corax and his friends were not without without their own supernatural supporters as a war as old as time continued. All while the Church of the Five and the infamous Blades of Sebastian fall closer to Fel, and Queen Darienne enjoys a brief respite before blossoming between sword and sorcery into the deadly Moonflower destiny has proclaimed her to be.

In short, David Doersch delivered exactly what I anticipated: another thrilling chapter in the world of Hortus, as full of deadly intrigue and breathtaking battle as warm moments of family and personal reckoning. Among other things, for while the Tor upon Green Mount is safe...the other Tors are not. So three minstrels march north, the Moonflower prepares for invasion while a different Queen readies her wedding, and, as the next book is titled The High King, Corvus' life is doubtlessly about to change again.

The battle cry goes out as swords are drawn… "Protect the Tor!"

IndiesToday's Editorial Review of The Dragonkin Legacy

The latest 5 Star Editorial Review of my book, courtesy of IndiesToday:

"The Archipelago of Cynnahu is a scattered realm that was born of history and shaped by war. Once a unified continent, Cynnahu is no longer an unbroken land populated by the peaceable Dragonkin. Human mages made sure of that. Now, an aggressive threat known as the Naga is making dangerous inroads. Prophecy points to a decisive conflict, the Last War, and with the Naga mounting a massive invasion, Cynnahu folk put their hope in a mismatched group of reluctant heroes. The group, which includes a curmudgeonly Fire Mage, an astute boy hiding in his father’s long shadow, a visionary leader, a bereft girl with insatiable curiosity, and a traveling mage known for his connections, is tasked with solving a riddle and finding a long-hidden key to victory. They haven’t trained together as warriors, but defend their home they must, for the Naga will show no mercy. There will be challenges, tortures, and losses, along with small wins, deep connections, and new friendships. Even if the five can triumph over the dangers, unravel pieces of veiled history, and defeat the Naga, will deeper mysteries reveal even greater foes?

Exactly the force their world needs, a team of unlikely allies will have to rely on the past to protect the future in Ian E.S. Adler’s magical adventure omnibus, The Dragonkin Legacy. The author dignifies readers with elegant prose, sophisticated language, and nuanced characters, no small feat for a book geared toward younger audiences but attractive to all. Among the well-developed characters, readers will be hard pressed to choose a favorite. Though attention is focused on the five, even secondary characters are given weight, personality, and significant space in the advancing story. At times, the intensity of the action and the unexpected maturity of the younger protagonists allow readers to momentarily forget just how young they truly are. However, moments like a dramatic rescue sequence expose their vulnerability, making their age unmistakable. Fantasy lovers will revel in the frenetic set-pieces, while the unraveling mystery and shrouded history will keep readers utterly engrossed, eager to uncover what lies beneath. Immersive and impressive, the novel’s lore is so complete, so intrinsic, that the old sayings and well-loved adages of the region feel less contrived than remembered from a world that seems to have existed long before the first page. The plot has many movements that culminate in a dramatic twist, seamlessly locking earlier events into place while delivering a deeply satisfying revelation. A sprawling tale of transformation, The Dragonkin Legacy reminds us that even in a world forged by fire, we can still choose to be led by what we love rather than the things we hate."

Quote of the month

"The hope is always here, always alive, but only your fierce caring can fan it into a fire to warm the world." - Merriman Lyon

LGBTQIA+ Pride Month

An inveterate Magic: the Gathering player, I pay close 
attention to the lore and THIS STORY,  Not for a Stranger, 
is the one for this month. A toast to Huatli and Saheeli.

"Hail royal June, sun-bright with poppies crowned" said John Cowper Powys, the English philosopher, lecturer, novelist, critic and poet. But I echo that hail today for another reason in addition to joyous Summer. It is LGBTQIA+ Pride Month, and with it let me continue to offer my undying support for the LGBTQIA+ community and reiterate the role Fantasy literature plays in supporting them by, to start, inviting people to read my LGBTQIA+ in Fantasy page, and listen to what happened to me today. As I state on the just mentioned page, I personally am not LGBTQIA+. However, I have students who are and one year I told them – quite truthfully, by the way – that I was writing a Fantasy book in which one of the key characters is lesbian. Their eyes lit and they were on their feet in less time than it takes to say it. But it is the moment when I told them that the character is a Queen that I shall forever remember, for the glow on their faces out-shown the lights on the ceiling by a leap and a bound. They began questioning me about the character, wanting to know her name, what she looked like, all about the land she ruled and, most importantly, when the book was coming out. To this last I gave them a disappointing answer, for an unfinished rough draft of a 500+ page book is naturally years away from publication, and they asked me how they were supposed to wait that long for a book with a gay Queen. They want to see the rough draft as it stands and one who has some artistic skill began drawing this Queen based on my description. The moral of the story? Representation matters, people. Seeing yourself in literature matters in a huge way. Indeed, when I found these students they were eagerly pursuing the school library's LGBTQIA+ Pride Month book display.

On that note, let me also reiterate that I utterly condemn such book banners, and they feel the full force of my contempt so hard it ought to frost their windows. So if you are anti-LGBTQIA+ and are reading this, do not even THINK of commenting on this or any other Stars Uncounted page or post spouting your intolerant drivel, because I will take one look and delete it. It will never appear, and I will lose no sleep over it. Rather, I will be laughing at how you are so insecure that you feel the need to rant on a Fantasy blog while reflecting on the truth of another Mercedes Lackey quote: "Make someone a devout, fanatical anything, and his brain turns to mulch." Then I will stop laughing and forget all about you, because I categorically deem anti-LGBTQIA+ people as a class of idiot so utterly unworthy of respect that I will not waste any more minutes thinking about you. You are a mosquito whose comment was a bite on this blog, and I will flick your comment away with as little thought or care as I would an actual mosquito misguided enough to try to get at my blood. Less care, actually, since, unlike true mosquito bites, deleted comments do not itch after the fact.

"The young must grow old,
Whilst old ones grow older,
And cowards will shrink,
As the bold grow bolder.
Courage may blossom in quiet hearts,
For who can tell where bravery starts?
Truth is a song, oft lying unsung,
Some mother bird, protecting her young,
Those who lay down their lives for friends,
The echo rolls onward, it seldom ends.
Who never turned and ran, but stayed?
This is a warrior born, not made!
Living in peace, aye many a season,
Calm in life and sound in reason,
'Til evil arrives, a wicked horde,
Driving a warrior to pick up his sword,
The challenger rings then, straight and fair,
Justice is with us, beware. Beware!"

-  Brian Jacques

I have started The Equinox Tor, Book Three of David Doersch's Chronicles of the Raven

At the author's request I have started The Equinox Tor, Book Three of David Doersch's Chronicles of the Raven.

I predicted that this book would begin with battle and I was right, for the Autumn Equinox is but a day away and Fel's servants must be stopped ere far more than Daffyd falls. Yet the Barbárs hordes and their sadistic Angor blood-shaman allies hold the Tor and advance deeper into the Green Mount, spilling Highlander blood all the way. While further south, though Lachland is for the moment safe, the Church of the Five are up to their polite necks in bloody plays for power... and has it in for Queens the world over. All of it wrapped up in a web of far-reaching plots complex enough to make a spider envious, so here's hoping that Queen Darienne and the Raven Corvus Corax and their kith and kin can – even without full understanding – fight their way through it since the price of failure is...total.

The battle cry goes out as swords are drawn… "Protect the Tor!"

 

(Naturally the Official Book Review will come after I finish the book.)

My father and I just finished The Age of Enchantment, the first of Anna James' Chronicles of Whetherwhy

My father and I just finished The Age of Enchantment, the first of Anna James' Chronicles of Whetherwhy.

Just because an author wrote one book you loved does not mean that one automatically reads, much less likes, their other, future books. Sometimes ones does, others times not – and this was absolutely the former! Coming strong off her Pages & Co. series, Anna James once more weaves her enchantment in this new series on the magical island of Whetherwhy, only instead of books the magic is rooted in the four seasons and everyone has the magic of the single season. All save Enchanters, who have the magic of them all.

Of course, this is Anna James, which means the plot – like the weather – is unpredictable. Juniper had more trouble getting her school of magic than I have ever read (I will never look at plant bulbs the same way again) and her twin Rafferty got himself into a bigger tangle, a harder knot, that Juniper's magpie and Zinnia's bloody stag. For all is not well in Whetherwhy, dark plots born of jealously and a desire for fairness spouting grim vines. Fortunately they contained the blight and healed their own divide. But the magical balance of the island is still off and we never did learn where the Queen stands in this.

IT'S OUT!

My full debut Epic Fantasy series, The Dragonkin Legacy, is now available on Amazon.

By the way, I did not choose June 1st at the release date arbitrarily. It just happened to also be the day the June edition of Kirkus Reviews Magazine came out – which includes their stellar review of the book.

“The worldbuilding is superb...[and] the characters are just as memorable...an enthralling epic teeming with valor, camaraderie, and searing battles.”
– Kirkus Reviews

 

I just finished Gift of Magic, Book 6 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms

I just finished Gift of Magic, Book 6 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms and the conclusion of its second trilogy.

Sometimes you have to walk back in order to move forward. You can choose your friends, but you cannot choose you relatives. Two age-old phrases that Ruithneadh of Ceangail and Sarah the dreamweaver would find very special appreciation for after learning who was leading them about, that Miach's theory was quite right, and where they ended up fighting a battle and building a home (two separate places these). And is not even talking Sarah's family history into account. But both family matters, and Gair of Ceangail's lifework, have been firmly to rest.

I will now say what I did after finishing the first trilogy: "I seldom dive into Romantic Fantasy...but this series caught and pulled me along with its ceaseless, heartfelt action. Seldom has any series chewed up entire afternoons the way this one has. Which is why I shall miss" Ruith and Sarah, for watching them first struggle against black mages and the past before ultimately prevailing was a gripping joy. Better still, they made it back to Mhorghain and Miach's wedding on time.

(Will I ever read the rest of the Novels of the Nine Kingdoms? Likely not, but who knows. I would like to see more of Rùnach and I just know the fate of the exiled Bruadair royals are involved, yet six more books is a lot to chew on though, and shelf space is, for me, almost as valuable as magic.) 

A new Harry, Ron, and Hermione

Tis no secret that HBO is making a Harry Potter TV series, but today we can finally put new faces to three very old, very dear, names. Behold the new Harry, Ron, and Hermione! Here is everything currently known:

"The series will be a faithful adaptation of the beloved “Harry Potter” book series by author and executive producer J.K. Rowling. The series will feature a new cast to lead a new generation of fandom, full of the fantastic detail and much-loved characters “Harry Potter” fans have loved for over twenty-five years. Each season will bring “Harry Potter” and these incredible adventures to new audiences around the world, while the original, classic and cherished films will remain at the core of the franchise and available to watch globally. The series is written and executive produced by Francesca Gardiner. Mark Mylod will executive produce and direct multiple episodes of the series for HBO in association with Brontë Film and TV and Warner Bros. Television. The series is executive produced by J.K. Rowling, Neil Blair, and Ruth Kenley-Letts of Brontë Film and TV, and David Heyman of Heyday Films."

Also, "this could be on HBO Max as early as 2026, according to BBC News." Beyond that and the general expectation born of curiosity and vicarious excitement, this news carries limited emotion resonance with me since I never watched the Harry Potter movie. But I LOVE the books and this proud Ravenclaw will not mince words: HBO – and the new trio – have some very large broomsticks to fly. But more power to them in trying to recast, so to speak, the spell that is Harry Potter and follow in the hallowed footsteps of the first three to let the world join them on the Hogwarts Express.

My The Dragonkin Legacy comes out under a week!

Yep! Hard to believe that June 1st is nigh upon us, and with it:

“The worldbuilding is superb...[and] the characters are just as memorable...an enthralling epic teeming with valor, camaraderie, and searing battles.”
– Kirkus Reviews

“À la Ursula K. Le Guin’s Earthsea saga… Adler’s world-building is exceptional and the character development and dynamism is impressive.”
– BlueInk Reviews

"Long ago, the continent of Cynnahu was shattered by a genocidal war between the native Dragonkin and invading human mages, leaving humanity victorious and the Dragonkin extinct. Now, millennia later, the descendants of those human conquerors face a newer yet still ancient enemy as a time dictated in Prophesy has arrived. A time when not one but five shall save – or fail to save – the Archipelago of Cynnahu in humanity’s Last War against the snake-folk of Nag Isle. A time when a Traveler, Orphan, Survivor, Student, and Lord will set sail to rediscover the secret of the Elder Song, the last magics of the Dragonkin.

They are Sakura, whose life is shattered when her entire family and home island are slaughtered; now orphaned and homeless, she seeks vengeance. Myrriden, the footsore mage and single father whose life is busy enough without a war. Emrys, Myrriden’s nervous son, who is certain he does not have what it takes to be a great mage like his dad. Volcan Darkrod, the enigmatic Fire Mage who’s past and powers are a mystery. And Archmage Hoth, the unflappable Leader of the Cynnahu folk who feels the weight of countless lives on his shoulders.

Guided by an ancient riddle recently uncovered by the famed Grey Owl Aneirin, this Team of Five must run a race of swords, spells, and dusty scrolls. But time is their greatest foe. Will the courage and wits of two eleven-year-olds and three vastly different mages be enough to free purposefully hidden secrets from forces predating human rule in Cynnahu to reunite the scattered Song while fighting a desperate war on land and sea? Only three things are certain: the past is not dead, where swords fail scrolls may prevail, and that humanity stands at the edge of extinction."

I just started Gift of Magic, Book 6 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms

I just started Gift of Magic, Book 6 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms.

Sometimes the only thing to do is walk opened-eyed into what is likely a trap; in this case beyond likely seeing as the breadcrumbs leading them are spell-fragments that, unlike most books of magic, absolutely deserves to be tossed into the nearest white-hot bonfire. So the questions are who is leading Ruith and Sarah on this merry chase, and which of the many black mages after Gair of Ceangail's lifework will try to kill them first? I have a suspicion of course, and Miach's theory must be considered as well – and there is always the horrible possibility that both are involved – but, regardless, the Nine Kingdoms will not dream easy until this family matter is put to rest.

I just finished Spellweaver, Book 5 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms

I just finished Spellweaver, Book 5 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms.

Evil spells stolen, mysteriously called, and laid out like breadcrumbs for Ruithneadh of Ceangail and Sarah of not-where-she-thought to follow, which means either someone is leading them on like a reluctant pony, fell magic is at work, or both – and I would bet a good mug of apple-flavored ale tis the latter. Still, at least shattered souls and lost identifies have been reassembled and found, nine of ten required princess have been danced with, and Sarah told who she was to the king of the elves who thankfully approves of her. Elves do shapechange, by the way, and so do horses – the latter of which is very useful when escaping a lunatic queen. Now I just hope a certain archmage's suspicion is unfounded but, alas, he has not been wrong yet.

Gather Day/The Harper's Glass (Dragonriders of Pern) - Anne McCaffrey

"Gather Day/The Harper's Glass" from the Dragonriders of Pern series by the honored Anne McCaffrey. The lyrics are, of course, written by Anne McCaffrey. I merely used AI to provide the music and generate the image.

The wisdom of Umberto Eco

Umberto Eco, author of the amazing historical mystery The Name of the Rose and who owned 50,000 books, had this to say about home libraries:

"It is foolish to think that you have to read all the books you buy, as it is foolish to criticize those who buy more books than they will ever be able to read. It would be like saying that you should use all the cutlery or glasses or screwdrivers or drill bits you bought before buying new ones."

 "There are things in life that we need to always have plenty of supplies, even if we will only use a small portion. If, for example, we consider books as medicine, we understand that it is good to have many at home rather than a few: when you want to feel better, then you go to the 'medicine closet' and choose a book. Not a random one, but the right book for that moment. That's why you should always have a nutrition choice!

"Those who buy only one book, read only that one and then get rid of it. They simply apply the consumer mentality to books, that is, they consider them a consumer product, a good. Those who love books know that a book is anything but a commodity."

The Rose Field (Re-post: Sir Philip Pullman vs. Lyra Silvertongue)

The Rose Field, the third and final volume of Sir Philip Pullman's The Book of Dust trilogy, comes out this autumn. News which, in the world I thought I would live in, I should be celebrating with fireworks. But instead it brings back all the pain that prompted me to write the October 3rd 2019 post I have re-posted below the video.

I will add here, however, that in hindsight it seems I was right. The Book of Dust trilogy is popular because, well, how could it not be, yet when I remember my reading of La Belle Sauvage and read reviews of The Secret Commonwealth, most seem to agree that while Pullman's skill has not diminished... the magic of His Dark Materials is gone, making The Book of Dust trilogy more like a Fantasy thriller. I have accidentally learned things about The Secret Commonwealth, which I cannot include as they would be spoilers, that I simply cannot reconcile with the Lyra Silvertongue I know and love to the end of my soul. Nor, from a strictly plot-line standpoint, the event of The Book of Dust with His Dark Materials.

People say The Book of Dust trilogy is simply a more adult book, showing the pains of maturity as Lyra grows up. I REJECT that. Utterly. Coming of Age stories are all but inseparable from Fantasy literature, so I know from vast experience that you need not sacrifice the magic to do so. Rather, seems that Pullman has let his freely admitted more cynical, closer to despair outlook on life and our world leak into Lyra and hers.

The details behind most of this are, again, in the re-post below the video announcing The Rose Field. But I also want to say, again, how painful this all is for me as a reader. His Dark Materials was the first book that broke my heart; I slept fitfully for a week after finishing and could not even look at it for years afterwards. THAT is how much Lyra means to me, so please remember that as you read forward. (Even writing this post is painful.)

The Book of Dust was like a myth, like a fabled mist-shrouded castle one endlessly walks towards yet never reaches nor even sees clearly. For over a decade nearly all we heard was that Sir Philip Pullman was "working on it," this message updated/rephrased every few years or so. We heard that he hoped for it to come out in 2016, yet the year passed without a word. Then, in 2017 after over a decade of agonized waiting, we learned that The Book of Dust would be not one book but three that that the first volume, La Belle Sauvage, would be coming out that year.
We all exploded with joy. Both when we heard the news and doubly so when we finally got our hands on the book that had been the pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. (And did we ever find rain.)

Now The Secret Commonwealth, volume two of The Book of Dust series has come.

Why all the solemnity as opposed to excitement? Because...
I NEVER thought I would EVER even THINK about saying this, but I am not sure that I will be able to read this. Not sure that I will be able to continue with The Book of Dust 😭

Frankly, I cannot picture Lyra as ANY kind of cynic. Remember, that we did NOT, actually, leave her at the end of The Amber Spyglass but rather in the mini-sequel Lyra's Oxford – which took place two years later. How could five years have changed her so much? Yes, I know and recall full well how His Dark Materials ended and have visited the wooden bench at the back of the Oxford Botanic Garden. But I also recall Lyra's Oxford and how it ended. How we saw that Lyra had grown into a mature young woman who was still the Lyra Silvertongue we love. Older yes, matured as I said, clearly grown-up from the wild girl we knew and tempered by the heartbreak she endured, yet she was nobody who Pan of all entities would call a pessimist. Hence my belief that it is Pullman, rather than Lyra, who changed 🙁 That Pullman gradually lost touch with her because I do not see how five years could have so changed the young woman we left at the end of the appropriately named Lyra's Oxford.
Recall how when La Belle Sauvage came out Sir Philip Pullman said that the collective Book of Dust series could be called "His Darker Materials" and that, as an author, "I’ve got older and perhaps more cynical, closer to despair...It is a darker book, I don’t deny that, but that’s the story that came to me and wanted to be told.” Recall how I thought that La Belle Sauvage made little contextual sense seeing as the political/general situation was nowhere near that bad in The Golden Compass. If it was then Lyra would have been kidnapped or killed years ago while running wild around Oxford. 
Indeed, the impression was not that the world was falling apart, nor was Lord Asriel a wanted man to the same degree. Recall that he was able to walk into and out of Oxford in The Golden Compass without the same life-threatening hassle as in La Belle Sauvage.
Recall how I previously posted about an article which revealed that, tragically, the great Philip Pullman is descending into a very dark, cynical, place and I, for one, have always viewed cynicism as merely a more sophisticated form of surrender; for cynics still fight for what they believe in – but they no longer truly believe. And how that selfsame article noted that "Pullman is famously an atheist, although he explores myth, legend and magic in all his writing and will do so particularly in the next book [of Dust], which sees Lyra losing her sense of magic as an adult and will be called The Secret Commonwealth."

"I’m not trying to prove anything to anyone,"
says Philip Pullman. "I’m just trying to stop
myself going mad."

Hence I believe that, grievously, Sir Philip Pullman is dragging Lyra Silvertongue down with him 😔 As a writer of an as-yet unpublished yet complete Fantasy series – while I am not fool enough to compare myself or work with Pullman – I do know what it means to truly create a living world with heartfelt characters. I learned during my writing that the mind of an author is linked with those of their characters and the world they live, but also that that link can be broken. Broken or warped if the mind of an author changes. As stated above, Pullman himself said "I’ve got older and perhaps more cynical, closer to despair...It is a darker book, I don’t deny that, but that’s the story that came to me and wanted to be told.” Now look that the link (here it is again) that I provided above and read the extract from The Secret Commonwealth. Add that with the also aforesaid plot-line inconsistencies of La Belle Sauvage with His Dark Materials, and I see an author whose mind is in a very different place from where it was when he wrote Lyra's Oxford. I see that, over the over ten years it has taken him to finally produce The Book of Dust, his mind has fundamentally changed from the man who wrote Lyra into existence. He, by his own words, is "perhaps more cynical, closer to despair" and hence The Book of Dust reflects that altered state of mind; reflects and projects it onto Lyra, thus resulting in a distorted reflection of her.

"Lyra just came to me entire and complete, I didn’t consciously make her up with a list of attributes. But I had been a teacher for about 12 years working with children of her age and there were lots of Lyras - in every classroom in the country there is a Lyra or two. Or three. She’s a very ordinary child and that’s the point about her. If she’s unusual it’s in her capacity to feel affection, which she does very readily and very warmly." – Philip Pullman  

THIS is the Philip Pullman who wrote His Dark Materials
and Lyra the Beloved. THIS is a man whom I think would look
upon his older self with concern.

I know all this may sound dramatic, but Lyra has a very special place my heart. She was the first and only book character whose sacrifice tormented my dreams for days – literately. I could not even look at the books for years without feeling a deep stab of grief. And I say all this with confidence because, as any passionate reader knows, the bond, the link, between the minds of reader and book-character is no less great and heartfelt that that between character and author. Like the author, we laugh and cheer and cry with them, knowing then as friends so close that they may as well be extended family.
Finally, for all those who read this and want to throw that tired retort "We all get more cynical as we get older" line at me, then permit me to quickly nip that dark and thorny rose in the bud:

"For myself, I find I become less cynical rather than more--remembering my own sins and follies; and realize that men's hearts are not often as bad as their acts, and very seldom as bad as their words." - J.R.R. Tolkien

"Cynicism masquerades as wisdom, but it is the farthest thing from it. Because cynics don’t learn anything. Because cynicism is a self-imposed blindness, a rejection of the world because we are afraid it will hurt us or disappoint us." - Stephen Colbert

"A cynic is not merely one who reads bitter lessons from the past; he is one who is prematurely disappointed in the future." - Sydney J. Harris

"Cynicism isn't smarter, it's only safer. There's nothing fluffy about optimism." - Jewel Kitcher

"The greater part of the truth is always hidden, in regions out of the reach of cynicism." - J. R. R. Tolkien

I just started Spellweaver, Book 5 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms

I just started Spellweaver, Book 5 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms.

Evil spells stolen and mysteriously called, evil brothers to contend with, and a mage who is just plain evil, plus a rescue mission. Which means Ruith will need to accomplish the fourth first if he wants any hope of dealing with the first three and walking away with both his magic and heart intact. Of course, both he and Sarah will have to come to terms with themselves and their families if they are to prevent the very and blessedly dead Gair of Ceangail's lifework from killing them and everyone they love.

(While I usually never start the next book of a series mere moments after finishing the previous, the ending of A Tapestry of Spells required no less. Which, I might add, is why I enjoy Lynn Kurland's Romantasy. Because the evil spells, regular split-second twists, and the threat of all encompassing doom keeps the blood pumping. Ah, young love...)

I have finished A Tapestry of Spells, Book 4 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms

I have finished A Tapestry of Spells, Book 4 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms.

Sarah of Doire would get along quite well with Morgan, falling for men full of magic and secrets and disliking each rather intensely. Of course, Ruithneadh of Ceangail's secrets were far worse than Miach's but, that little detail aside, the foul life of Gair, Black Mage of Ceangail, continues to haunt the Nine Kingdoms and his surviving family as obviously others beside Lothar are after his cursed works. Still, at least I got the timeline straight: A Tapestry of Spells ending roughly in the middle of Princess of the Sword, Book 3 of the original trilogy. Here's hoping Ruith and Sarah get themselves out of this little pickle, or a good deal more will end.

My father and I have for the second time finished Archer's Goon by Diana Wynne Jones

My father and I have for the second time finished Archer's Goon by Diana Wynne Jones.

Diana Wynne Jones: Mistress of the Multiverse and Lady of Endless Surprises – whom I put second only to J.R.R. Tolkien himself. I know this sounds absurd, but her wit, skill, and pure genius can even go beyond Tolkien and J.K. Rowling at times. Read my Hidden Gems page to see my full-blown praise of her, but even this time Dad was - who after so many years had forgotten the key plot points - was raving about how Jones is "Shakespearean in her genius!"

Do NOT let the seeming simplicity of her writing style or plots deceive you. As much as Hexwood, in Archer's Goon nothing is as it appears and Jones is ALWAYS not one but thirteen steps ahead of you, ready with surprises that will leave you flapping your jaw in astonishment as you try to wrap your head around the latest twist.

Back to the Nine Kingdoms!

Romantic Fantasy, or Romantasy as it is called these days, is generally not my cup of tea, so it takes an especially gripping one to bring me aboard. Or in this case, bring me back as I have just started A Tapestry of Spells, Book 4 of Lynn Kurland's Novels of the Nine Kingdoms and the beginnings of its second trilogy that seems to be a sequel/companion to the first.

Two years ago this series caught and pulled me along with its ceaseless, heartfelt action, so while I of course hope to see Morgan and Miach again, I am doubly looking forward to getting to know and journeying with Sarah of Doire and Ruithneadh of Ceangail. A soul-shattering journey no doubt, filled with ruthless revelations and dark magics capable of rending the Nine Kingdoms, as the past will always find a person even as they defend the future. Particularly if the source of the evil is one's own family.

Behold my Dragonkin Legacy!

“The worldbuilding is superb...[and] the characters are just as memorable...an enthralling epic teeming with valor, camaraderie, and searing battles.” – Kirkus Reviews

My full debut Epic Fantasy series, The Dragonkin Legacy, is now available on Amazon. Yes, I know it only shows up as Kindle. Relax. Come June 1st the Paperbacks will be available, books one and two and omnibus, with a third on the way. Come to think of it, Book One, The Last War, is available NOW.

 

Editorial Reviews 

"The Dragonkin Legacy by Ian E.S. Adler is an epic fantasy adventure that blends historical fiction with mythical elements. I loved the world-building and the intense action. The narrative style was perfect to keep the pace of the story, keep the attention of readers on the plot, and complement the development of the characters. Adler’s vivid descriptions bring the world of Cynnahu to life, making it easy for readers to immerse themselves in the story. I loved how the story explored topics like the consequences of war and how it affects countless lives. While the plot is intricate and involves numerous subplots, Adler ties everything together in a satisfying conclusion. The storytelling is both rich and immersive, drawing readers into a world that is as enchanting as it is dangerous. Each member of the Team of Five is well-crafted, with distinct personalities and arcs that evolve as the narrative unfolds. Sakura’s quest for vengeance adds a raw emotional edge, while Myrriden’s struggles with fatherhood and duty provide a clear contrast. Was there ever a moment in the story that felt lacking? Never! The ending was perfect and made me love the story more. Highly recommended!" - Rabia Tanveer (starred review for Readers' Favorite)

"A fantasy novel replete with magic, lore, and epic stakes, The Last War by Ian E.S. Adler is a classic questing adventure in the richly imagined world of Nim-Semalf. The Order of mages and the entire archipelago they protect faces invasion by the naga, catapulting five unlikely companions into the fiery crucible of destiny. Amidst ancient riddles, embattled dragon shrines, fearless storm swords, and the mysterious motives of Archmages, the fast-moving plot is enthralling, as is this new realm taking shape before readers' eyes. Built on an elaborate mythology and supported by a classic fantasy plot of ultimate victory vs. complete annihilation, this first book in The Cynnahu Saga is a knockout start to a new series." - Self-Publishing Review (SPR) (starred review)

"Adler has built a complex and detailed fantasy world full of adventure and excitement that keeps readers turning the pages. The author provides explanations of what people perform in their jobs that go along with their titles, such as Dragon Guardians, Isle Masters, Loremasters, and Mages, to name a few. A strong and ideal cast of characters who are dealing with grief, sacrifice, tricky interactions, and bravery in the face of overwhelming odds populate the story. The characters also undertake risks, whether it is being involved in battles where magic plays a part or in trying to overcome outside forces and internal challenges when it comes to solving the secret code in ancient writings... The Last War is a gripping fantasy story that pulls readers into a magical world with nonstop action and suspense that revolves around an armed confrontation of epic proportions." - Feathered Quill Reviews

"Adler created a rich and imaginative world populated with interesting and well-developed characters encompassing the depth of their history and mythology. Fans of the fantasy genre will be enthralled by the level of detail and visual delights that bring this story to life, pulling the reader right into the action...focus[ing] not only on war and action but the wisdom and strategy the young characters, Emrys and Sakura, must face when solving puzzles and challenges. The author invests much of the narration with dialogue, creating a colorful plot and development throughout the book. This technique gives the characters more dimension so that we understand their motives, while the storyline never falters and will keep you turning one page after the next. While this action-packed, strategic tale follows what many readers may find to be a familiar fantasy storyline, it's a rich, vibrant tale with unique characters and a fantastic world will keep you looking forward to the next installment." - Literary Titan (starred review and winner of the Literary Titan Book Award)