Rating: Summary: Well written, Compelling, Fantasy at its best! Review: This trilogy is the story of a prince who is trying to solve a riddle about the three stars on his forehead. I enjoyed it because it had a strong feeling to it. It was one of those wonderful books that I simply couldn't put down. The Riddle Master Trilogy is as compelling and suspenseful as any fine mystery story. You will want to read this book again and again. I strongly recommend it.
Rating: Summary: What a 14-year-old Thought About the Book Review: After reading any Harry Potter, there's a let down, because you know whatever you read next won't ensnare you as much. But, these books actually are interesting enough to keep you interesting for all 592 pages. Although they are slightly confusing in the begining, they eventually make a great deal of sense and are a very enjoyable read.
Rating: Summary: Best Series Ever Review: This is the best fantasy series ever written.What I would give to write like Ms. McKillip! This must be read by anyone who claims to like this genre, and even those who don't. Prose is poetry here, and the story is rich and compelling. And the people live and breath. I read this years ago, and still can recall the phrases and wording.
Rating: Summary: inspired Review: One of the greatest works of science fantasy. Tolkein is irrelevant (comparing apples and oranges). I first read the trilogy when I was 15. I'll be 35 soon and I re-read the books yearly.
Rating: Summary: Did we read the same book? Review: I bought this book on the basis of 36 great reviews given here. What a mistake. This book is shallow and confusing. The characters have no depth. The ideas and concepts, while intriguing, are never developed. There is no explanation of what is going on and why? Things simply happen, for no apparent reason. And who are all these characters that bounce in and out of the story? They are never developed or have any purpose, except perhaps to offer a bed and a meal to an incredibly unlikeable 'hero'. Why does his girlfriend not want to marry him? Why doesn't she use HER powers? Who are the bad guys that are sucking the life out of the land? Why are they mad and what exactly are they doing? YOU NEVER FIND OUT! By the end of the book I was rooting for the enemy, if for no other reason than to put this indecisive, slow-witted guy out of his misery. But even the final battle was a bore. He shows up, they run away. That's it. And finally, the authors play on the words death/Deth and hell/Hel got old real soon. I vowed years ago never to buy any book that in any way shape or form compared itself to Tolkein. This one did and I wish I hadn't paid the money for it. I sincerely hope I got a copy with every other page missing, or perhaps an early draft. Something, anything that might give me a reason to beleive those other reviews. Unfortunately, I doubt it. If this is the state of current fantasy, we're in trouble.
Rating: Summary: To Find and Accept The Power Within Review: An incredible epic tale with beautiful imagery that encompasses all the trials of total self acceptance. Patricia McKillip weaves a splendid tale that reaches deep into your soul and pulls out the essence of deep personal inquiry. I cannot think of a better book to give to anyone in search of their own personal power. I have read this trilogy several times and know it will be read many more times.
Rating: Summary: A Defining Work Review: Patricia McKillip will always be remembered for this series. It shows her true mastery of the fantasy genre and showcases her gift for lyrical prose. I recommend this one all of the time, in any format, and own two copies myself.
Rating: Summary: The Best Review: This trilogy is on my top five list of favorite fantasynovels,along with Tolkien's The Ring Trilogy, Hughart's Bridge ofBirds, Zelazny's The Amber Chronicles and Hambly's Antryg Windrose books. The difference is...THIS is the trilogy I wish _I_ had written. Human love and grief, humor, understanding and maturity, magic that comes with knowing yourself and the world around you....none of these are things we outgrow or become surfeited on. It may not please all readers, but is that the fault of the writer or the reader? ;)
Rating: Summary: The Best Work of Young Adult Fantasy Ever Written! Review: I've read this series several times, and I am still amazed at how the story is so beautifully developed without one word too many or one word too few. The plot will keep you intrigued and guessing until the end. The world is one of the best fantasy worlds I've ever encountered. Above all, this is an original, not a copy from another author's work. If you haven't read this series, read it. Let your children read it - it's an excellent intoduction to epic fantasy.
Rating: Summary: Simply gorgeous Review: The three books which comprise this trilogy--how I wish *I* could've gotten all of them at one stroke, instead of tortuously searching out each sequel!--are among my very favorites. The author *is* my very favorite. The reasons are simple and numerous. McKillip deftly shapes a world that draws us in effortlessly on all levels: from the muddy pigherders of Hed to the great sorcerer-kings. Inhabiting it are people you can fall in love with recklessly, not the least of them being the protagonist Morgan. He falls into love and into tragedy, and you cannot help but follow his steps and emotions. The plot draws you through all three books, compelling and offering twists and turns that surprise and delight. And at the end, it is all tied together into a resoundingly satisfying conclusion. My foremost admiration is for McKillip's writing, which is full of luxuriant description and the occasional wry humor. I only wish I could master the same flow of words she obtains. In many ways I consider her writing to be more of poetry than prose. I cannot recommend this trilogy highly enough. I would suggest it be read when you have plenty of time, because her thoughtful story deserves no less.
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