Rating: Summary: Just reread the Belgariad instead. Review: Worse than I expected, and my expectations were pretty low to begin with. There is very little new here, and what is new doesn't jibe very well with what we already know about this world. This is the first Eddings book I absolutely will not read again.
Rating: Summary: A WONDERFUL OVERVIEW Review: I read the two books several years ago and enjoyed them immensely. However, I felt that after reading the Iliad and the Tamuli that some of David Eddings characters tended to repeat. Garion and Sparhawk could be the same person and after reading "Belgarath the Sorcerer" characters seem slightly one dimensional. The racial characteristics of the races don't change even over seven thousand years, this is highly unlikely. There is also the feeling from reading the book that the planet seems to be permanently in the middle of the Middle Ages. Crossbows have been invented but not gunpowder. It seems as though the lifestyle attained seven thousand years ago has stayed there throughout without change. But David Eddings gets away with it though because his writings are so superb, they flow without seam. His characters are well defined, his story well thoughtout. Brilliant as ever this book is his best, because Belgarath is his best character, a loveable rogue who we wish we knew. PS Can anyone explain to me how Mandorelin (Baron of Vo Mandor)and Llandorelin become friends. In the Guardians of the West, Garion has to settle a dispute between Mandorelin and a rival baron and Llandorelin goes to his friends aid. In the first book "Pawn of Prophecy" Garion meets up with LLandorelin at Vo Wacune, where they travel to Vo Mandor and meet the Baron who travels with them to Vo Mimbre. But LLandorelin becomes ill on the way and is left behind. So Mandorelin and LLendorelin would have spent very little time together. Hard to see two sworn enemies becoming friends that quick.
Rating: Summary: COMPULSIVE READING Review: AFTER READING BELGARETH, IT MADE ME WANT TO RE-READ 'THE BELGARIAD' AND 'THE MALLOREON' I AM AT PRESENT RE-READING 'THE TAMULI' TO BE FOLLOWED BY 'THE ELENIUM'. WHEN 'POLGARA' IS PUBLISHED THIS IS ANOTHER MUST FOR FANTASY FANS
Rating: Summary: Eddings' Best Yet!!! Review: Well old Dave finally went and did it! For years, his loyal readers, myself included, have been clammoring for a little more in depth idea of the history of Belgarath the Ancient Sorcerer. Now that history is brought forth in a book of excellent caliber. This book brings together all the loose ends that were left lying around from the Belgariad and the Mallorean. Two thumbs up in my book. Now I am eagerly awaiting the history of Ancient Belgarath's daughter, Polgara. Well done! Keep them coming!
Rating: Summary: ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT Review: It doesnt matter if you havent read the Belgariod or the Mallorean before, this book stays brilliant. Huge events such as the regaining of the Orb , the asassination of King Gorek by the Nyissans, the Battle of Vo Mimbre and the dividing up of Aloria are well and clearly explained by the Old Wolf , Belgarath the Sorcerer.
Although it explains all those gaps and bits of information that the other books left unclearly it still leaves you wanting for more. Now if you will excuse me,
and off to the library for Polgara the Sorceres
Rating: Summary: just a rehash Review: This book is, unfortunately, mostly just a rehash
of plot elements previously mentioned in Eddings'
previous books. While there are a few new events
here and there, the fact that the overall plot
is already somewhat obvious makes it tedious to read. This books was hugely disappointing after
all the other excellent and captivating books
by Eddings. It is almost as if it was written by
someone else.
Rating: Summary: Vintage Eddings - Just Wonderful Review: Well, this book takes off immediately (I MEAN the same second) after "THE SEERESS OF KELL" and than it goes WAY back. I had the luck to start this right after I finished SEERESS and I must say that it is a nice broadening of the Belgariad/Malloreon series. No, I didn't want to know everything that happend before Garion and his friends left Faldors Farm, I just enjoyed this book because it is a pretty good read and on par with the other works of Eddings (or, as we know now: the both Eddings). People who liked the aforementioned series should definitely read this: It has the same tone and the same style as the other books, only the structure is a little bit different. Well, as you can guess now, I loved it. NOW, some warnings: People who read the BEL/MAL series and want something new, should skip this. The next point: Although this book was conceived as a stand-alone-novel, it isn't. Or it doesn't succeed. I would not recommend this book to readers who haven't read the BELGARIAD / MALLOREON series. Unless "you know your way around" this particular world, you will be confused by this wide array of characters, countries, kings, queens and gods - this book does not work as a guide - it expects you to know already at least something about this world. Furthermore: You'll not understand the numerous side-remarks to the characters from the other novels which Belgarath, the fictional author of this novel, inserted between the tale. You can ignore them, but then you'll miss most of the fun. Finally, a warning to all readers, Eddings-Fans and new ones alike: This book starts REALLY slow. Don't let the first 100-200 pages discourage you, this book GETS BETTER and is a lot of fun. Polgara, I'm waiting for your tale now..
Rating: Summary: Another great Eddings title Review: Eddings has been one of my favorite authors for quick, clear fantasy since I read Pawn of Prophecy when I was about 12. I'll give you the positive and negative...
Positive
Eddings's excellent, funny characters are back. Belgarath has always been one of my favorites. The fantasy world itself is large, with each nation displaying a distinct culture. The first person perspective gives us a new insight into Belgarath's thoughts. The magical happenings and personalities of gods give a sense of wonder to the books.
Negative
Characters sometimes seem to go through little development throughout the chronological sequels. Also, the total plot has never been earth-shattering except within the story. However, the details are given very well, with a few surprises. In conclusion, Eddings fans should DEFINITELY buy this. Fantasy fans should read _Pawn of Prophecy_ and see if they wish to continue the series. I think they will. Non-fantasy fans should also read _Pawn of Prophecy_; it's a good introduction
Rating: Summary: Create another soon Mr. and Mrs. Eddings Review: First the BELGARAIAD, then the MOLLOREAN, and now BELGARATH THE SORCERER. What else could beat a series of stories with this much humour, excitement, adventure, and undeniable heartiness. A great understanding of the characters' life, commitments, and cultures. Create another series of Garion, Belgarath, Polgara, and the others soon Mr. and Mrs. Eddings
Rating: Summary: GET A NEW PLOT LINE!!! Review: If you are truly interested in reading more of the same drivel that he has pumped out since the Diamond Throne then go right ahead and get this nicely expensive book that will contribute to his royalties...and persuade him to make more boring rehashes of the same characters...COME ON DAVID...Have some originality that many other authors have
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