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Heroine archetypes
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Synopsis
"The first book of the triumphant and epic four-part conclusion to the Shannara series, from one of the all-time masters of fantasy. Across the Four Lands, peace has reigned for generations. But now, in the far north, an unknown enemy is massing. More troubling than the carnage is the strange and wondrous power wielded by the attackers--a breed of magic unfamiliar even to the Druid order. Fearing the worst, the High Druid dispatches a diplomatic party under the protection of the order's sworn guardian, Dar Leah, to confront the mysterious, encroaching force and discover its purpose. But another crucial journey is being undertaken. Exiled onetime High Druid Drisker Arc has been living in quiet seclusion, far from the politics and power struggles of his former life, until two brutal attacks by would-be assassins force him to seek out an infamous murder-for-hire guild--and find the hidden enemy who has marked him for death. At his side is Tarsha Kaynin, a young woman gifted with the wishsong and eager to be schooled in its formidable power by a master. She, too, is pursuing a mission: to locate her wayward brother, whose own magic has driven him to deadly madness and kindled his rage for vengeance. against his sister. In their darkest hours, facing dangerous adversaries, the lives and quests of Dar Leah, Drisker Arc, and Tarsha Kaynin will be inextricably drawn together. And the challenges each confronts will have resounding consequences for the future of the Four Lands. Praise for Terry Brooks "The Sword of Shannara is an unforgettable and wildly entertaining epic, animated by Terry Brooks's cosmically generative imagination and storytelling joy."--Karen Russell, New York Times bestselling author of Swamplandia! "If Tolkien is the grandfather of modern fantasy, Terry Brooks is its favorite uncle."--Peter V. Brett, New York Times bestselling author of The Skull Throne "I can't even begin to count how many of Terry Brooks's books I've read (and reread) over the years. F
Is Black Elfstone appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 13 and up.
Parents should know this epic fantasy contains moderate fantasy violence including battles and assassin attacks, a character driven to madness by magic, and murder-for-hire guilds, but no sexual content or strong language.
What to know going in
This book has moderate violence, no sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include murder, violence, and mental illness.
Publisher ages reflect reading level; our rating reflects content maturity — they can differ.
Who'll love this
Teens will enjoy the intertwining quests, magical powers like the wishsong, and the mystery of an unknown enemy threatening the Four Lands.