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Pern (Chronological Order)
Legends II
The Great Anthology of Short Novels by the Masters of Modern Fantasy
TERRY GOODKIND tells the origin of the Border between the lands in the world of The Sword of Truth, in "Debt of Bones."
GEORGE R.R. MARTIN sets his piece a generation before his epic, A Song of Ice and Fire, in the adventure of "The Hedge Knight."
ANNE McCAFFREY, the poet of Pern, returns once again to her world of romance and adventure in "Runner of Pern."
And look for Legends 1 (featuring Stephen King, Robert Silverberg, Orson Scott Card, Raymond E. Feist) and Legends 3 (featuring Robert Jordan, Ursula K. Le Guin, Tad Williams, Terry Pratchett).
Introduction by Robert Silverberg
Homecoming by Robin Hobb
Threshold by Ellizabeth Haydon
The Sworn Sword by George R.R. Martin
The Yazoo Queen by Orson Scott Card
Lord John and the Succubus by Diane Gabaldon
The Book of Changes by Robert Silverberg
The Happiest Dead Boy in the World by Tad Williams
Beyond Between by Anne McCaffrey
The Messenger by Raymond E. Feist
The Monarch of the Glen by Neil Gaiman
Indomitable by Terry Brooks
645 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1998
307 people are currently reading
5654 people want to read
About the author
Robert Silverberg
2,346 books1,605 followersThere are many authors in the database with this name.
Robert Silverberg is a highly celebrated American science fiction author and editor known for his prolific output and literary range. Over a career spanning decades, he has won multiple Hugo and Nebula Awards and was named a Grand Master by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America in 2004. Inducted into the Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame in 1999, Silverberg is recognized for both his immense productivity and his contributions to the genre's evolution.
Born in Brooklyn, he began writing in his teens and won his first Hugo Award in 1956 as the best new writer. Throughout the 1950s, he produced vast amounts of fiction, often under pseudonyms, and was known for writing up to a million words a year. When the market declined, he diversified into other genres, including historical nonfiction and erotica.
Silverberg’s return to science fiction in the 1960s marked a shift toward deeper psychological and literary themes, contributing significantly to the New Wave movement. Acclaimed works from this period include Downward to the Earth, Dying Inside, Nightwings, and The World Inside. In the 1980s, he launched the Majipoor series with Lord Valentine’s Castle, creating one of the most imaginative planetary settings in science fiction.
Though he announced his retirement from writing in the mid-1970s, Silverberg returned with renewed vigor and continued to publish acclaimed fiction into the 1990s. He received further recognition with the Nebula-winning Sailing to Byzantium and the Hugo-winning Gilgamesh in the Outback.
Silverberg has also played a significant role as an editor and anthologist, shaping science fiction literature through both his own work and his influence on others. He lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with his wife, author Karen Haber.
Robert Silverberg is a highly celebrated American science fiction author and editor known for his prolific output and literary range. Over a career spanning decades, he has won multiple Hugo and Nebula Awards and was named a Grand Master by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America in 2004. Inducted into the Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame in 1999, Silverberg is recognized for both his immense productivity and his contributions to the genre's evolution.
Born in Brooklyn, he began writing in his teens and won his first Hugo Award in 1956 as the best new writer. Throughout the 1950s, he produced vast amounts of fiction, often under pseudonyms, and was known for writing up to a million words a year. When the market declined, he diversified into other genres, including historical nonfiction and erotica.
Silverberg’s return to science fiction in the 1960s marked a shift toward deeper psychological and literary themes, contributing significantly to the New Wave movement. Acclaimed works from this period include Downward to the Earth, Dying Inside, Nightwings, and The World Inside. In the 1980s, he launched the Majipoor series with Lord Valentine’s Castle, creating one of the most imaginative planetary settings in science fiction.
Though he announced his retirement from writing in the mid-1970s, Silverberg returned with renewed vigor and continued to publish acclaimed fiction into the 1990s. He received further recognition with the Nebula-winning Sailing to Byzantium and the Hugo-winning Gilgamesh in the Outback.
Silverberg has also played a significant role as an editor and anthologist, shaping science fiction literature through both his own work and his influence on others. He lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with his wife, author Karen Haber.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
July 16, 2017
Originally reviewed at Bookwraiths.
Legends II is an anthology edited by Robert Silverberg, who has gathered together an outstanding group of diverse stories for this collection. From George R.R. Martin to Diane Gabaldon to Terry Brooks, the big name authors have seemingly jumped at the chance to be featured here, and they have produced some fine tales, running the gamut from classic fantasy to urban fantasy to alternate history to science fiction. All of which means there is sure to be something in this anthology to satisfy or peak the interest of every reader.
Naturally, however, the diverse nature of any anthology means certain stories will connect better to some individuals than others. Certain authors more palatable than others; one story more compelling than another. And since I’m a reader first and foremost that goes for me as well, and so this review will focus on and rate each story individually, so as to help others determine if this collection is one they wish to obtain.
Homecoming by Robin Hobbs 5 stars
This return to the Realms of the Elderlings is an autobiographical story of a hapless colonist to the Cursed Shores. Her diary entries reading like a fantastical Robinson Crusoe tale, where this civilized lady must shed her modern ways, adapt to her harsh wilderness home, and deal with the strange madness which her fellow survivors begin to succumb to. All in all, it was a fantastic story, which I would recommend to everyone.
The Sword Sworn by George R.R. Martin 5 star
Like so many fantasy fans, I love A Song of Ice and Fire, as well as the Game of Thrones television series. Can’t get enough of anything to do with place, including the tales of Hedge Knight Dunk and his squire Egg. And this was yet another great tale of the duo, one where Dunk’s loyalty to his liege is challenged by the realization of how and why this elder knight has fallen on such hard times.
The Yanzoo Queen by Orson Scott Card 2 stars
I can’t say I’ve ever been a huge fan of this author or his alternate history series featuring Alvin Maker. And this story of the didn’t convert me, but I’m sure fans will enjoy this one, especially all the famous historical figures who make appearances.
Lord John and the Succubus by Diane Galbadon 1 star
Outlander is another series I’ve never really gotten hooked on. It just doesn’t appeal to me. And this supernatural thriller set during the Seven Years War with a good deal of eroticism mixed in did not appeal to me either. In fact, I DNF’d it about halfway through. I’m sure fans of the series will love it though.
The Book of Change by Robert Silverberg 2 stars
A Marjipoor story set in both the past and present, presented through the eyes of a frivolous poet. I couldn’t really get interested in it, but then again I’ve never enjoyed the Marjipoor series.
The Happiest Dead Boy in the World by Tad Williams 2 Stars
Orlando Gardiner, a virtual reality caretaker of a V.R. universe, must solve a mystery while dealing with the unique problems of his occupation. A nice sci fi/fantasy genre blender will some good moments, but it just felt a little flat to me.
Beyond Death by Anne McCaffrey 4 stars
An emotional Pern story filled with love, grief, and peace after death. The quasi-religious overtones might bother some, but they aren’t specific to any particular religion, merely of a spiritual nature. Be that as it may, I have to admit Anne McCaffrey really tugged on my personal heartstrings with this one, causing me to nearly tear up a few times.
The Messenger by Raymond E. Feist 5 stars
This simple story of a young messenger doing his duty no matter the cost during wartime is probably my favorite of the whole collection. Definitely, the action and drama of whether our youth will survive gripped me, but even more so, the character’s simple heroism, dogged determination, and unswerving dedication was what made me love his story so much.
Threshold by Elizabeth Haydon 5 Stars
A great cataclysm is about to destroy the kingdom. The majority of the inhabitants of the land have taken to the seas to escape. Left behind is a group of dedicated individuals determined to find and aid any stragglers, hoping against hope the cataclysm never comes. This emotional tale of self-sacrifice, dignity, and the true beauty of the human spirit an amazing read, filled with deep emotions.
The Monarch of the Glen by Neil Gaiman 4 stars
American Gods continues here with Shadow traveling the world and being sucked into an ancient ritual. Gaiman delivers a mysterious, compelling narrative which will satisfy old fans and encourage others to give American Gods a try.
Indomitable by Terry Brooks 4 stars
A nice, light Shannara tale which picks up a few years after the conclusion of The Wishsong of Shannara. Brooks doesn’t change his style any here or subvert any classic fantasy tropes, but he does deliver a self-contained journey which is filled with likable characters engaged in an entertaining, fast-paced adventure. Honestly, it is probably the best thing I’ve read by Brooks in many years.
If you were keeping count I thoroughly enjoyed most of these stories. I even discovered a few series that I definitely intend to try (Gaiman’s American Gods) and a couple I intend to revisit in the near future (Feist’s Riftwar). Certainly, there were a few which I didn’t love (Outlander), but overall, this was a great anthology, one which I would encourage others to give a try.
Legends II is an anthology edited by Robert Silverberg, who has gathered together an outstanding group of diverse stories for this collection. From George R.R. Martin to Diane Gabaldon to Terry Brooks, the big name authors have seemingly jumped at the chance to be featured here, and they have produced some fine tales, running the gamut from classic fantasy to urban fantasy to alternate history to science fiction. All of which means there is sure to be something in this anthology to satisfy or peak the interest of every reader.
Naturally, however, the diverse nature of any anthology means certain stories will connect better to some individuals than others. Certain authors more palatable than others; one story more compelling than another. And since I’m a reader first and foremost that goes for me as well, and so this review will focus on and rate each story individually, so as to help others determine if this collection is one they wish to obtain.
Homecoming by Robin Hobbs 5 stars
This return to the Realms of the Elderlings is an autobiographical story of a hapless colonist to the Cursed Shores. Her diary entries reading like a fantastical Robinson Crusoe tale, where this civilized lady must shed her modern ways, adapt to her harsh wilderness home, and deal with the strange madness which her fellow survivors begin to succumb to. All in all, it was a fantastic story, which I would recommend to everyone.
The Sword Sworn by George R.R. Martin 5 star
Like so many fantasy fans, I love A Song of Ice and Fire, as well as the Game of Thrones television series. Can’t get enough of anything to do with place, including the tales of Hedge Knight Dunk and his squire Egg. And this was yet another great tale of the duo, one where Dunk’s loyalty to his liege is challenged by the realization of how and why this elder knight has fallen on such hard times.
The Yanzoo Queen by Orson Scott Card 2 stars
I can’t say I’ve ever been a huge fan of this author or his alternate history series featuring Alvin Maker. And this story of the didn’t convert me, but I’m sure fans will enjoy this one, especially all the famous historical figures who make appearances.
Lord John and the Succubus by Diane Galbadon 1 star
Outlander is another series I’ve never really gotten hooked on. It just doesn’t appeal to me. And this supernatural thriller set during the Seven Years War with a good deal of eroticism mixed in did not appeal to me either. In fact, I DNF’d it about halfway through. I’m sure fans of the series will love it though.
The Book of Change by Robert Silverberg 2 stars
A Marjipoor story set in both the past and present, presented through the eyes of a frivolous poet. I couldn’t really get interested in it, but then again I’ve never enjoyed the Marjipoor series.
The Happiest Dead Boy in the World by Tad Williams 2 Stars
Orlando Gardiner, a virtual reality caretaker of a V.R. universe, must solve a mystery while dealing with the unique problems of his occupation. A nice sci fi/fantasy genre blender will some good moments, but it just felt a little flat to me.
Beyond Death by Anne McCaffrey 4 stars
An emotional Pern story filled with love, grief, and peace after death. The quasi-religious overtones might bother some, but they aren’t specific to any particular religion, merely of a spiritual nature. Be that as it may, I have to admit Anne McCaffrey really tugged on my personal heartstrings with this one, causing me to nearly tear up a few times.
The Messenger by Raymond E. Feist 5 stars
This simple story of a young messenger doing his duty no matter the cost during wartime is probably my favorite of the whole collection. Definitely, the action and drama of whether our youth will survive gripped me, but even more so, the character’s simple heroism, dogged determination, and unswerving dedication was what made me love his story so much.
Threshold by Elizabeth Haydon 5 Stars
A great cataclysm is about to destroy the kingdom. The majority of the inhabitants of the land have taken to the seas to escape. Left behind is a group of dedicated individuals determined to find and aid any stragglers, hoping against hope the cataclysm never comes. This emotional tale of self-sacrifice, dignity, and the true beauty of the human spirit an amazing read, filled with deep emotions.
The Monarch of the Glen by Neil Gaiman 4 stars
American Gods continues here with Shadow traveling the world and being sucked into an ancient ritual. Gaiman delivers a mysterious, compelling narrative which will satisfy old fans and encourage others to give American Gods a try.
Indomitable by Terry Brooks 4 stars
A nice, light Shannara tale which picks up a few years after the conclusion of The Wishsong of Shannara. Brooks doesn’t change his style any here or subvert any classic fantasy tropes, but he does deliver a self-contained journey which is filled with likable characters engaged in an entertaining, fast-paced adventure. Honestly, it is probably the best thing I’ve read by Brooks in many years.
If you were keeping count I thoroughly enjoyed most of these stories. I even discovered a few series that I definitely intend to try (Gaiman’s American Gods) and a couple I intend to revisit in the near future (Feist’s Riftwar). Certainly, there were a few which I didn’t love (Outlander), but overall, this was a great anthology, one which I would encourage others to give a try.
April 4, 2016
The stories I read from this collection are:
'The Sworn Sword' by George R.R. Martin
In the same league as its predecessor, 'The Hedge Knight', and its successor, 'The Mystery Knight', all three of which tell tales of the hedge knight Ser Duncan the Tall and his squire Egg.
'The Yazoo Queen' by Orson Scott Card
Another interesting alternate America story about Alvin Maker and his pupil Arthur Stuart. Like 'Grinning Man', which featured Davey Crockett, this story features appearances by multiple famous historical figures.
'The Monarch of the Glen' by Neil Gaiman
This novella functions incredibly well as an epilogue for American Gods, especially considering Shadow is already in Europe at the end of that novel, and apprehensive about returning to America, which is addressed in this story.
'The Sworn Sword' by George R.R. Martin
In the same league as its predecessor, 'The Hedge Knight', and its successor, 'The Mystery Knight', all three of which tell tales of the hedge knight Ser Duncan the Tall and his squire Egg.
'The Yazoo Queen' by Orson Scott Card
Another interesting alternate America story about Alvin Maker and his pupil Arthur Stuart. Like 'Grinning Man', which featured Davey Crockett, this story features appearances by multiple famous historical figures.
'The Monarch of the Glen' by Neil Gaiman
This novella functions incredibly well as an epilogue for American Gods, especially considering Shadow is already in Europe at the end of that novel, and apprehensive about returning to America, which is addressed in this story.
December 23, 2016
5*
Loved Legends 1 and this was a superb follow-up.
Silverberg was a legend of the field himself so it's no surprise that he's managed this feat. These are all novellas and they are all very satisfying at that.
5** “Homecoming” by Hobb. v. clever look at what's reality and memory.
5* “The Sworn Sword" by George RR Martin. Song of Fire and Ice World. The tale of Dunk the Hedge Knight. Only Martin can entertain readers like this!
5*“The Yazoo Queen”by Orson Scott Card. People rave on about Enders Game (which is very good), but the world of Alvin the Maker is richer and certainly better written. Forgot his conservative beliefs and enjoy his work. This is a fantastic alternative history on the Mississippi. A few historical characters are thrown in for fun too. Superb!
5*“Lord John and the Succubus” by Diane Gabaldon. A gay protagonist who seems to timetravel in this dark fantasy set in the Seven Year War. I've always avoided Gabaldon but that's about to change. Much stronger than I ever imagined
4* “The Book of Changes" by Robert Silverberg. Set in the past and future of his Majipoor world. Strong story again
3* “The Happiest Dead Boy in the World" By Tad Willians. I personally found The Otherland Saga hard to get into and that affected my reading here. A likable story but not as strong as those surrounding it.
4.5* 'Beyond Between by Anne McCaffrey. The world of Pern by the Queen of dragon stories. What's not to love?
4.5* “The Messenger.” by Raynmond E Feist A soldier's story in the Riftwar World. I thought I'd outgrown this world or it may be that this is another top story. Worth the read - Riftwar fan or not.
3.5*'Threshold' by Elizabeth Haydon. Certainly enough in this for me to read more. An introduction into the world of her series. Enjoyed it.
5* 'The Monarch of the Glen by Neil Gaiman. A man is involved unwittingly in an age old battle between man and beast. The best story I've read by Gaiman and this is much better than American Gods (which is still strong). This novella has stayed with me. Remarkable build up and the atmosphere throughout compels. Marvellous!
4.5* "Indomitable,” by Terry Brooks. Thought I was over the derivative world of Brooks too but this brought me back. You can't deny that Brooks is a first class story teller. I'll remember not to forget his work so easily next time around.
Loved Legends 1 and this was a superb follow-up.
Silverberg was a legend of the field himself so it's no surprise that he's managed this feat. These are all novellas and they are all very satisfying at that.
5** “Homecoming” by Hobb. v. clever look at what's reality and memory.
5* “The Sworn Sword" by George RR Martin. Song of Fire and Ice World. The tale of Dunk the Hedge Knight. Only Martin can entertain readers like this!
5*“The Yazoo Queen”by Orson Scott Card. People rave on about Enders Game (which is very good), but the world of Alvin the Maker is richer and certainly better written. Forgot his conservative beliefs and enjoy his work. This is a fantastic alternative history on the Mississippi. A few historical characters are thrown in for fun too. Superb!
5*“Lord John and the Succubus” by Diane Gabaldon. A gay protagonist who seems to timetravel in this dark fantasy set in the Seven Year War. I've always avoided Gabaldon but that's about to change. Much stronger than I ever imagined
4* “The Book of Changes" by Robert Silverberg. Set in the past and future of his Majipoor world. Strong story again
3* “The Happiest Dead Boy in the World" By Tad Willians. I personally found The Otherland Saga hard to get into and that affected my reading here. A likable story but not as strong as those surrounding it.
4.5* 'Beyond Between by Anne McCaffrey. The world of Pern by the Queen of dragon stories. What's not to love?
4.5* “The Messenger.” by Raynmond E Feist A soldier's story in the Riftwar World. I thought I'd outgrown this world or it may be that this is another top story. Worth the read - Riftwar fan or not.
3.5*'Threshold' by Elizabeth Haydon. Certainly enough in this for me to read more. An introduction into the world of her series. Enjoyed it.
5* 'The Monarch of the Glen by Neil Gaiman. A man is involved unwittingly in an age old battle between man and beast. The best story I've read by Gaiman and this is much better than American Gods (which is still strong). This novella has stayed with me. Remarkable build up and the atmosphere throughout compels. Marvellous!
4.5* "Indomitable,” by Terry Brooks. Thought I was over the derivative world of Brooks too but this brought me back. You can't deny that Brooks is a first class story teller. I'll remember not to forget his work so easily next time around.
October 17, 2018
Overal this is an enjoyable anthology, especially if you know the authors and the series they write the novella's in.
Favorites Robin Hobb / George R.R. Martin / Diana Gabaldon (surprisingly)/ Tad Williams / Neil Gaiman
Favorites Robin Hobb / George R.R. Martin / Diana Gabaldon (surprisingly)/ Tad Williams / Neil Gaiman
January 18, 2022
So you've put out a hugely successful anthology (Legends) in which you got a bunch of big-name fantasy authors to write all-new original novellas set in the worlds of their famous fantasy series. What do you do next?
(Well, if you're Robert Silverberg, the first thing you do is try the same thing, but with a bunch of famous science fiction authors -- Far Horizons: All New Tales from the Greatest Worlds of Science Fiction -- but while it was a solid collection, I assume it just didn't have the same sales numbers?)
Obviously, you do it again!
And hence, we have the not-so-imaginatively titled Legends II, which is, again, a bunch of famous fantasy authors writing all-new original novellas set in the worlds of their famous fantasy series (with a couple of asterisks). There's a fair amount of overlap with the first anthology in terms of the author list -- six out of eleven -- with some new big names stepping in to fill the remaining slots. To be precise:
The returners: George R.R. Martin (A Song of Ice & Fire -- another Dunc & Egg story, following the previous volume's "The Hedge Knight"), Anne McCaffrey (Pern), Tad Williams (Otherland*), Raymond E. Feist (Riftwar), Orson Scott Card (Tales of Alvin Maker) and Robert Silverberg (Majipoor).
The newcomers: Terry Brooks (Shannara), Diana Gabaldon (Outlander), Neil Gaiman (American Gods**), Elizabeth Haydon (Symphony of Ages) and Robin Hobb (Realm of the Elderlings).
And, as with the first book, if you're a fan of big, fat fantasy series, at least as they were practiced in the late 1990s, you're probably thinking, "Hey, a new story in that series I like!", and you'll not be disappointed; and at least some of the authors you haven't read before will have stories to intrigue you enough that you might go out and look for the source novels.
*Yes, Otherland is an SF series, not fantasy, but much of the story takes place in a VR recreation of Tolkien's Rivendell, so we'll allow it.
**This is kind of the odd one out -- there were only two American Gods novels (American Gods and Anansi Boys, which was more of a companion piece than a sequel). This is a novella that more or less directly follows on from American Gods; and Gaiman was pretty huge at the time, so I completely understand why they recruited him.
(Well, if you're Robert Silverberg, the first thing you do is try the same thing, but with a bunch of famous science fiction authors -- Far Horizons: All New Tales from the Greatest Worlds of Science Fiction -- but while it was a solid collection, I assume it just didn't have the same sales numbers?)
Obviously, you do it again!
And hence, we have the not-so-imaginatively titled Legends II, which is, again, a bunch of famous fantasy authors writing all-new original novellas set in the worlds of their famous fantasy series (with a couple of asterisks). There's a fair amount of overlap with the first anthology in terms of the author list -- six out of eleven -- with some new big names stepping in to fill the remaining slots. To be precise:
The returners: George R.R. Martin (A Song of Ice & Fire -- another Dunc & Egg story, following the previous volume's "The Hedge Knight"), Anne McCaffrey (Pern), Tad Williams (Otherland*), Raymond E. Feist (Riftwar), Orson Scott Card (Tales of Alvin Maker) and Robert Silverberg (Majipoor).
The newcomers: Terry Brooks (Shannara), Diana Gabaldon (Outlander), Neil Gaiman (American Gods**), Elizabeth Haydon (Symphony of Ages) and Robin Hobb (Realm of the Elderlings).
And, as with the first book, if you're a fan of big, fat fantasy series, at least as they were practiced in the late 1990s, you're probably thinking, "Hey, a new story in that series I like!", and you'll not be disappointed; and at least some of the authors you haven't read before will have stories to intrigue you enough that you might go out and look for the source novels.
*Yes, Otherland is an SF series, not fantasy, but much of the story takes place in a VR recreation of Tolkien's Rivendell, so we'll allow it.
**This is kind of the odd one out -- there were only two American Gods novels (American Gods and Anansi Boys, which was more of a companion piece than a sequel). This is a novella that more or less directly follows on from American Gods; and Gaiman was pretty huge at the time, so I completely understand why they recruited him.
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June 9, 2025"Homecoming" by Robin Hobb: 3 1/2 stars
Can’t say I was excited about this one. In fact, I was on the verge of skipping it, until that tic about fidelity to my insane tbr selection kicked in, and here we go.
The reticence stemmed from a notion I’ve gotten stubbornly lodged somewhere that there is this thing fantasy and there is this thing short fiction, and they’d best keep their distance. This trek through the form has already started the process of dislodging the notion—namely, by divorcing my preconception of fantastic literature from swords and dirt medievalism. It was a misconstrued enmeshing, derived from contemporary trends, and far outpacing the simplest (and best, in my opinion) definition of fantastic literature, as put forth by Tom Shippey: a “literature which makes deliberate use of something known to be impossible.”
That correction, however necessary, would do me little good with this selection, for this was not Mauren McHugh, but Robin Hobb, practitioner par excellence of precisely the high fantastical form I’d feared. What is more, I happen to have a bit of experience with her, having read the interminable Ass Apprentice a few years back on a friend’s recommendation. That one was a worst-case scenario for fantasy: the book anticipating immersion and love of character, and therefore written to the person presumed to have had that magic conjured – full of extraneous detail and characterization – except it hasn’t happened.
Finally, to add insult to anticipated injury, the Hobb on the docket was 80 pages long.
And yet, what can I say? I enjoyed it.
She presents the story of an exile noble woman and her family, washed up on some wild shore and drawn to the mysterious ancient city at its center. It is a novella wearing its strangeness strangely, in that its half aware of the incongruities of its setup, but nonetheless uses that half to pleasing ends, playing consciously into its Conan, the Swiss Family Barbarian conceit. It either masked or sublimated the annoyances of Apprentice, even if retaining some passages of overlong ponderousness. Likewise, she neatly closed all the doors she’d opened during the plot in a way I had not expected. Not bad, and hopefully this’ll cure me of the reflexive fantasy restraint for good.
Can’t say I was excited about this one. In fact, I was on the verge of skipping it, until that tic about fidelity to my insane tbr selection kicked in, and here we go.
The reticence stemmed from a notion I’ve gotten stubbornly lodged somewhere that there is this thing fantasy and there is this thing short fiction, and they’d best keep their distance. This trek through the form has already started the process of dislodging the notion—namely, by divorcing my preconception of fantastic literature from swords and dirt medievalism. It was a misconstrued enmeshing, derived from contemporary trends, and far outpacing the simplest (and best, in my opinion) definition of fantastic literature, as put forth by Tom Shippey: a “literature which makes deliberate use of something known to be impossible.”
That correction, however necessary, would do me little good with this selection, for this was not Mauren McHugh, but Robin Hobb, practitioner par excellence of precisely the high fantastical form I’d feared. What is more, I happen to have a bit of experience with her, having read the interminable Ass Apprentice a few years back on a friend’s recommendation. That one was a worst-case scenario for fantasy: the book anticipating immersion and love of character, and therefore written to the person presumed to have had that magic conjured – full of extraneous detail and characterization – except it hasn’t happened.
Finally, to add insult to anticipated injury, the Hobb on the docket was 80 pages long.
And yet, what can I say? I enjoyed it.
She presents the story of an exile noble woman and her family, washed up on some wild shore and drawn to the mysterious ancient city at its center. It is a novella wearing its strangeness strangely, in that its half aware of the incongruities of its setup, but nonetheless uses that half to pleasing ends, playing consciously into its Conan, the Swiss Family Barbarian conceit. It either masked or sublimated the annoyances of Apprentice, even if retaining some passages of overlong ponderousness. Likewise, she neatly closed all the doors she’d opened during the plot in a way I had not expected. Not bad, and hopefully this’ll cure me of the reflexive fantasy restraint for good.
January 15, 2016
I can't help but give this 5 stars. Even though I'm not interested in a couple of the series/authors, they weren't bad. The best part was the extra stories for Pern and American Gods.
March 30, 2015
I originally bought Legends II because it contained a short story set in the Shannara world by Terry Brooks who has long been one of my favorite authors. In the intervening time that it's taken me to get around to reading it, I discovered and enjoyed The Tales of Alvin Maker series by Orson Scott Card and was pleased to see a short story by him from that world in the book. I'm only vaguely familiar with a couple of the other authors who contributed, but upon reading their contributions, I'm glad I discovered most of them through his anthology. What follows is a review of each short story.
Homecoming by Robin Hobb is a tale of suffering, loss, betrayal, hatred, greed, ingenuity, resourcefulness, and perseverance told through the journal of an outcast noble woman. It is also a tribute to the goodness, love, forgiveness, compassion, and hope that is at the heart of human existence. A fascinating tale which makes me interested in Ms. Hobb's other work.
The Sworn Sword by George R. R. Martin recounts an adventure of a knight errant and his squire who is more than he seems. I think this short story would make an excellent movie. Hardship, danger, honor, deceit, love, fighting, and comedy are all present in balance. I have A Game of Thrones and am excited to begin the series after being introduced to the world through such an energizing tale.
The Yazoo Queen by Orson Scott Card fills in the details as a sort of prologue to The Crystal City. The most important events are alluded to in the full novel, but it's by no means necessary to read the short story in order to understand their consequences. It's just a nice bonus to loyal fans of the series who've been waiting decades for Mr. Card to finally finish it. Mr. Card creates some very interesting characters, but it seems like the most interesting characters are not given the "screen time" I think they deserve.
Lord John and the Succubus by Diana Gabaldon I did not finish because of the rampant and explicit homoeroticism throughout the narrative. There could have been a good story there, well written with drama and danger, but it was spoiled by being blatantly pornographic.
The Book of Changes by Robert Silverberg is a drama taking place mostly through the thoughts of a frivolous poet who finds himself in a strange position, an unwilling "guest" and host to the greatest epic poem the world of Majipoor has ever seen. I'm not familiar with Majipoor other than through this story, but I wonder where the modern technology went and I find it very hard to believe that advanced humans capable of interstellar travel haven't yet completely colonized a new world in 14,000 years, even if it is 10 times the diameter of Earth.
The Happiest Dead Boy in the World by Tad Williams is a story that integrates fantasy and science fiction in a believable and compelling way. More so than any of the other stories in Legends II, I'm interested in reading the series from which this story derives. Orlando Gardiner, semi-virtual caretaker of a virtual universe finds himself struggling with both the unique problems of his occupation, and those derived from his past as a corporeal human when a new mystery suddenly crops up which he must tackle.
Beyond Between by Anne McCaffrey tells about loss, grief, reunion, love, and peace found after death. I've never read anything from Ms. McCaffrey's Pern before, probably because the cover art never attracted me, even though my Dad had recommended them to me years ago. This, my first introduction convinces me that it would be well worth my while to explore a little bit more into Pern.
The Messenger by Raymond E. Feist should be subtitled "Nothing to speak of" because that seems to be the chorus of the short novel. The story is one of heroism, dedication, honor, duty, and true grit. It is my favorite in the whole book. The action and drama of this story gripped me stronger than any story has in some time. The suspense strung me out and made me hang on until the end of the amazing ride.
Threshold by Elizabeth Haydon is the story of one sure cataclysm and one near cataclysm. There is something entrancing about life during and after destruction and devastation. The story is a true human drama, of suffering and loss, of love and the human will to live and survive, of self-sacrifice so others can do what must be done and have a chance to live and enjoy life. Ms. Haydon masterfully encapsulates all this in Threshold.
The Monarch of the Glen by Neil Gaiman is about a reluctant savior-figure in a world where all the old myths and legends are real and still around us. I have respect for Mr. Gaiman. He had several opportunities to portray graphic sex in this story, but he steered it away from that. Still there were a couple of uncomfortable spots he could have avoided all together. The Monarch of the Glen is a sort of re-telling of Beowulf where the monsters are humanized and the humans are monsterized.
Indomitable by Terry Brooks is the reason I picked up this book at all. I've since lost measure of my love for the world of Shannara and was a little jaded when I began reading Indomitable, but taking it by itself, the novella is very good. Indomitable is a sort of extended epilogue of The Wishsong of Shannara. The characters are true to their natures established in the full novel, but are older and a little more grown up. Jair is still the stereotypical Shannara hero, a very relatable sort, but they all seem to be pretty much the same. It's surprising to me that Mr. Brooks pulled off a short story so well. He tends to be quite wordy and drawn out in his novels, but there didn't seem to be a lot of excess material and he told the story quickly and well.
Homecoming by Robin Hobb is a tale of suffering, loss, betrayal, hatred, greed, ingenuity, resourcefulness, and perseverance told through the journal of an outcast noble woman. It is also a tribute to the goodness, love, forgiveness, compassion, and hope that is at the heart of human existence. A fascinating tale which makes me interested in Ms. Hobb's other work.
The Sworn Sword by George R. R. Martin recounts an adventure of a knight errant and his squire who is more than he seems. I think this short story would make an excellent movie. Hardship, danger, honor, deceit, love, fighting, and comedy are all present in balance. I have A Game of Thrones and am excited to begin the series after being introduced to the world through such an energizing tale.
The Yazoo Queen by Orson Scott Card fills in the details as a sort of prologue to The Crystal City. The most important events are alluded to in the full novel, but it's by no means necessary to read the short story in order to understand their consequences. It's just a nice bonus to loyal fans of the series who've been waiting decades for Mr. Card to finally finish it. Mr. Card creates some very interesting characters, but it seems like the most interesting characters are not given the "screen time" I think they deserve.
Lord John and the Succubus by Diana Gabaldon I did not finish because of the rampant and explicit homoeroticism throughout the narrative. There could have been a good story there, well written with drama and danger, but it was spoiled by being blatantly pornographic.
The Book of Changes by Robert Silverberg is a drama taking place mostly through the thoughts of a frivolous poet who finds himself in a strange position, an unwilling "guest" and host to the greatest epic poem the world of Majipoor has ever seen. I'm not familiar with Majipoor other than through this story, but I wonder where the modern technology went and I find it very hard to believe that advanced humans capable of interstellar travel haven't yet completely colonized a new world in 14,000 years, even if it is 10 times the diameter of Earth.
The Happiest Dead Boy in the World by Tad Williams is a story that integrates fantasy and science fiction in a believable and compelling way. More so than any of the other stories in Legends II, I'm interested in reading the series from which this story derives. Orlando Gardiner, semi-virtual caretaker of a virtual universe finds himself struggling with both the unique problems of his occupation, and those derived from his past as a corporeal human when a new mystery suddenly crops up which he must tackle.
Beyond Between by Anne McCaffrey tells about loss, grief, reunion, love, and peace found after death. I've never read anything from Ms. McCaffrey's Pern before, probably because the cover art never attracted me, even though my Dad had recommended them to me years ago. This, my first introduction convinces me that it would be well worth my while to explore a little bit more into Pern.
The Messenger by Raymond E. Feist should be subtitled "Nothing to speak of" because that seems to be the chorus of the short novel. The story is one of heroism, dedication, honor, duty, and true grit. It is my favorite in the whole book. The action and drama of this story gripped me stronger than any story has in some time. The suspense strung me out and made me hang on until the end of the amazing ride.
Threshold by Elizabeth Haydon is the story of one sure cataclysm and one near cataclysm. There is something entrancing about life during and after destruction and devastation. The story is a true human drama, of suffering and loss, of love and the human will to live and survive, of self-sacrifice so others can do what must be done and have a chance to live and enjoy life. Ms. Haydon masterfully encapsulates all this in Threshold.
The Monarch of the Glen by Neil Gaiman is about a reluctant savior-figure in a world where all the old myths and legends are real and still around us. I have respect for Mr. Gaiman. He had several opportunities to portray graphic sex in this story, but he steered it away from that. Still there were a couple of uncomfortable spots he could have avoided all together. The Monarch of the Glen is a sort of re-telling of Beowulf where the monsters are humanized and the humans are monsterized.
Indomitable by Terry Brooks is the reason I picked up this book at all. I've since lost measure of my love for the world of Shannara and was a little jaded when I began reading Indomitable, but taking it by itself, the novella is very good. Indomitable is a sort of extended epilogue of The Wishsong of Shannara. The characters are true to their natures established in the full novel, but are older and a little more grown up. Jair is still the stereotypical Shannara hero, a very relatable sort, but they all seem to be pretty much the same. It's surprising to me that Mr. Brooks pulled off a short story so well. He tends to be quite wordy and drawn out in his novels, but there didn't seem to be a lot of excess material and he told the story quickly and well.
February 10, 2009
I greatly enjoy fantasy stories, even if I am not very well read in the genre, so this was a blast to work through. (And it is something that one might have to "work through" - 642 pages!) My favorite stories were by the following authors: Robin Hobb, Diana Gabaldon, Tad Williams, Anne McCaffrey, Elizabeth Haydon, and Neil Gaiman (of course - American Gods 'verse? Yes please!).
November 24, 2021
A terrific compilation of fantasy stories from eleven masters of the genre - I had read (and loved) works from about half of the authors included, and was unfamiliar with the other half, which made for a great reading experience. In fact, my three favourite stories in this anthology were from authors I'd never read before (Robin Hobb, Raymond E. Feist, and Elizabeth Haydon), and I'm now eager to read more from each of them! Highly recommend this for fantasy readers, as the introductions to each world and the stories included are all fabulous.
September 20, 2025
It’s been 20+ years since I read the original stories that these eleven short novels expand upon. And I found myself enjoying these just as much today as I did their counterparts so many years ago. The story telling has aged well. Give Legends (1) a try or jump straight into Legends 2. If you enjoy 1990s to early 2000s era fantasy, then you should enjoy both anthology collections!
February 9, 2013
Homecoming - Robin Hobb (4-5 stars)
Very intruiging, didn't like characters at first but got totally sucked into the story, with lots of mystery and character development. Note to self: Robin Hobb is a WOMAN.
The Sworn Sword - George R.R. Martin (the guy from Song of Ice and Fire/Game of Thrones) (1 star)
Extremely boring. Tried to start reading it several times and eventually just gave up, never finished it. Knights and valor are just not for me.
The Yazoo Queen - Orson Scott Card (the guy from Ender's Game) (2 stars)
The magic system is interesting, but the story ends when I feel it's just beginning...not much happens. Also, the dialects are annoying and the historical setting/slave trade thing does not appeal to me. Perhaps try stuff from same writer but different universe.
Lord John and the Succubus - Diana Gabaldon (3 stars)
More of a whodunnit than a fantasy story, no fantastical aspects whatsoever. The story was interesting enough for me to read to the end (solve the mystery), but again the historical setting does not appeal to me.
The Book of Changes - Robert Silverberg (2 stars)
The writing style is so over the top, with way too many adjectives and fancy words. The writer also keeps repeating himself, in true Goodkind style, to get a point across. I liked the strange world he describes, but its history is much too war- and especially male-driven to my taste. The story itself is nothing very interesting.
The Happiest Dead Boy in the World - Tad Williams (4-5 stars)
Fun concept, interesting story, pleasant writing style. The only thing I can complain about is that this story is sort of an epilogue, and it seems as though a lot of the stuff that happens in the Otherland books is mentioned. So not recommended as a first introduction to the series, because of the massive spoilers.
Beyond Between - Anne McCaffrey (3 stars)
A lot more supernatural than the usual sci-fi, with ghosts and all. Brings some closure to Moreta's story, but still sad.
The Messenger - Raymond E. Feist (4 stars)
I don't care much about war stories, but this one is very well written and kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. Now I remember why I used to like the Riftwar chronicles so much.
Threshold - Elizabeth Haydon (2 stars)
Came across as pretentious to me, mostly because of the writing style. I was rather frustrated with the characters because they all seemed to be doing a stupid thing in the name of honor and duty and so on. Would have given it 1 star if not for the plot twist at the end, at least that was mildly interesting.
The Monarch of the Glen - Neil Gaiman (4 stars)
Intriguing story, I wanted to keep reading to find out what was going on. Although in the end, I'm not sure I understood it all. Interesting mythos though, maybe one day I'll read American Gods (if I can overcome my instinctive aversion at the title :P).
Indomitable - Terry Brooks (2 stars)
It came off sort of pompous to me, I guess it was the writing style. The story was nothing special, and the 'man doing his duty' thing is really getting old.
Very intruiging, didn't like characters at first but got totally sucked into the story, with lots of mystery and character development. Note to self: Robin Hobb is a WOMAN.
The Sworn Sword - George R.R. Martin (the guy from Song of Ice and Fire/Game of Thrones) (1 star)
Extremely boring. Tried to start reading it several times and eventually just gave up, never finished it. Knights and valor are just not for me.
The Yazoo Queen - Orson Scott Card (the guy from Ender's Game) (2 stars)
The magic system is interesting, but the story ends when I feel it's just beginning...not much happens. Also, the dialects are annoying and the historical setting/slave trade thing does not appeal to me. Perhaps try stuff from same writer but different universe.
Lord John and the Succubus - Diana Gabaldon (3 stars)
More of a whodunnit than a fantasy story, no fantastical aspects whatsoever. The story was interesting enough for me to read to the end (solve the mystery), but again the historical setting does not appeal to me.
The Book of Changes - Robert Silverberg (2 stars)
The writing style is so over the top, with way too many adjectives and fancy words. The writer also keeps repeating himself, in true Goodkind style, to get a point across. I liked the strange world he describes, but its history is much too war- and especially male-driven to my taste. The story itself is nothing very interesting.
The Happiest Dead Boy in the World - Tad Williams (4-5 stars)
Fun concept, interesting story, pleasant writing style. The only thing I can complain about is that this story is sort of an epilogue, and it seems as though a lot of the stuff that happens in the Otherland books is mentioned. So not recommended as a first introduction to the series, because of the massive spoilers.
Beyond Between - Anne McCaffrey (3 stars)
A lot more supernatural than the usual sci-fi, with ghosts and all. Brings some closure to Moreta's story, but still sad.
The Messenger - Raymond E. Feist (4 stars)
I don't care much about war stories, but this one is very well written and kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. Now I remember why I used to like the Riftwar chronicles so much.
Threshold - Elizabeth Haydon (2 stars)
Came across as pretentious to me, mostly because of the writing style. I was rather frustrated with the characters because they all seemed to be doing a stupid thing in the name of honor and duty and so on. Would have given it 1 star if not for the plot twist at the end, at least that was mildly interesting.
The Monarch of the Glen - Neil Gaiman (4 stars)
Intriguing story, I wanted to keep reading to find out what was going on. Although in the end, I'm not sure I understood it all. Interesting mythos though, maybe one day I'll read American Gods (if I can overcome my instinctive aversion at the title :P).
Indomitable - Terry Brooks (2 stars)
It came off sort of pompous to me, I guess it was the writing style. The story was nothing special, and the 'man doing his duty' thing is really getting old.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2010
I actually read these eleven stories in the two paperback editions that were published in 2004; Legends II: Shadows, Gods, and Demons and Legends II: Dragon, Sword, and King. I knew from reading the first Legends that I would not be disappointed, and I was not.
The first Legends was where I first learned of Terry Goodkind, Orson Scott Card, Robert Jordon, and Stephen King's Dark Tower horror/fantasy series. Silverberg himself was new to me, and I eventually read some of his stories as well. I am glad that I read all of these because, had I not read these books, I would never have read Haydon, Brooks, Williams (Tad), and Gabaldon. I still need to read Robin Hobb!
I recommend to anyone who wants to jump into the SciFi/Fantasy genre for the first time to find an anthology and start there; from there you can choose the authors that appeal to you and you can enter many strange, beautiful, and wondrous worlds!
The Stories:
Homecoming, by Robin Hobb
The Book of Changes, by Robert Silverberg
The Happiest Dead Boy in the World, by Tad Williams
Beyond Between, by Anne McCaffrey
The Messenger, by Raymond E. Feist
The Monarch of the Glen, by Neil Gaiman
The Sworn Sword, by Geroge R. R. Martin
The Yazoo Queen, by Orson Scott Card
Lord John and the Succubus, by Diana Gabaldon
Threshold, by Elizabeth Haydon
Indomitable, by Terry Brooks
The first Legends was where I first learned of Terry Goodkind, Orson Scott Card, Robert Jordon, and Stephen King's Dark Tower horror/fantasy series. Silverberg himself was new to me, and I eventually read some of his stories as well. I am glad that I read all of these because, had I not read these books, I would never have read Haydon, Brooks, Williams (Tad), and Gabaldon. I still need to read Robin Hobb!
I recommend to anyone who wants to jump into the SciFi/Fantasy genre for the first time to find an anthology and start there; from there you can choose the authors that appeal to you and you can enter many strange, beautiful, and wondrous worlds!
The Stories:
Homecoming, by Robin Hobb
The Book of Changes, by Robert Silverberg
The Happiest Dead Boy in the World, by Tad Williams
Beyond Between, by Anne McCaffrey
The Messenger, by Raymond E. Feist
The Monarch of the Glen, by Neil Gaiman
The Sworn Sword, by Geroge R. R. Martin
The Yazoo Queen, by Orson Scott Card
Lord John and the Succubus, by Diana Gabaldon
Threshold, by Elizabeth Haydon
Indomitable, by Terry Brooks
September 4, 2012
(Dunk & Egg #2 Review) Man, I really needed this after A dance with dragons! It's beautiful in its simplicity, yet as well written as the early ASOIAF books. As a bonus, it also has a lot of back-story within about a certain raveny character who becomes pretty interesting in ADWD.
February 11, 2025
Some amazing tales from some wonder authors. Each has their own distinct signature.
August 6, 2017
A fantastic collection of short stories--Legends, indeed!
January 18, 2025
Homecoming was interesting. The origin of the rain wild. I guess I needed to read this one before moving on to rain wild series.
April 26, 2020
REALM OF THE ELDERLINGS: HOMECOMING
Robin Hobbs
As an introductory experience into reading Robin Hobbs, I am very impressed. At the beginning of this novelette she provided a summary of her works and their world. I'm intrigued to read more.
Homecoming's main character, whose name didn't appear until nearing the end, began as a pampered aristocrat. During the trip Carillion's chatter was filled with disgust at having to raise her own kids (the nanny deserted her), bemoan the fact her quarters were far below her station, that she had to rub elbows with the lower classes, and that a good deal of the fellow nobility looked down their noses at her. Led o believe her husband was taking her and the kids on a work trip, she learned along the way he had offended the rulers of their city and been banished.
The “woe is me” attitude grated on my nerves, but the artist in her found a way to make settling in the new and challenging world the shipload of people found themselves manageable. She grew. She grew immensely, and I came to like her quite a bit. Local library, here I come!
THE SWORN SWORD
George RR Martin
I came to learn more of the history of Westeros, how it was settled, about the First Men and the Children and the Targaryens. It takes place before anyone we've come to know was born or old enough to take rulership of their houses.
It wasn't until nearly the end of the tale that I learned how young Ser Duncan actually was, for the way he talked about the war I put him in his mid to late 20's. But then, as I write this, I realize that young people grow up “fast of a sudden”. As for Egg, well, I find it quite interesting that his father, the King of Westeros, squires his child to a mere hedge knight with no actual home of his own. A lad from Flea Bottom made into a knight.
THE YAZOO QUEEN
Orson Scott Card
With a few choice words the mind sinks into the southern US dialect, sometimes the gentry, sometimes the working class. As part of the Alvin Maker series, I believe this falls after the books have finished. Alvin and Arthur Stuart, because the latter is ONLY known by his first and last name together, choose a ferry to possibly free some slaves and in the meantime meet Abe Lincoln and Jim Bowie. It's a fun read and ended before I thought it could.
Although the setting is an alternate history, enough of the history makers are placed timely throughout and don't stray too far from their paths. We get a bit of historical fiction, if you will, that broadens the insight of the characters, taking skills such, as a photographic memory, and turning them into something slightly magical. Which, being fairly uncommon, makes perfect sense.
I'd forgotten how YA level the writing is, so be prepared for shorter sentence structures and vocabulary if you are an adult reading any of the Alvin Maker series.
LORD JOHN AND THE SUCCUBUS
Diana Gabaldon
If you are looking for same-sex love scenes, you'll be sorely disappointed. In fact, you won't find any sex scenes. We'll talk about it, sure, after all a Succubus is involved, but we won't read about passionate moments. Just lust, longing, and confusing signals.
Instead, what you'll be rewarded with is local superstition, culture, and John's powers of deductive reasoning, his persistence in getting to the bottom of the matter. His logic and mindset remain true to character. He knows his place within the army, be it subordinate or commander, and steps in to fill those roles as needed. And his compassion and advice when he comes across a young man just realizing his predilections are not socially acceptable, perhaps saving the boy's life with his words of wisdom.
MAJIPOOR: THE BOOK OF CHANGES
Robert Silverberg
The vast world of Majipoor and the 10,000 years of off-world settlers as seen through the eyes of the fifth son of the now highest ruler of all the lands, the Pontifex. Since rulership is neither hereditary nor elected, the only thing to gain is by being part of the noble privileged class is status, and, well, privilege.
The main character, Aithan Furvain, parties his life away until somewhere in his mid thirties, perhaps, he realizes what an unfulfilling lot his life has been. He chooses to undertake a solo expedition in a direction less well-traveled, hoping that the journey will fill that hole. And it does, but not in the way he expected, thought even in Aithan's mind he does not know exactly what he hopes to achieve. It's just not in his nature to plan ahead. Goals are elusive, so why set them in stone?
Did I mention he's a poet? Very little of his work gets published. In fact, when it does, it's only because his friends jot down his work or grab the paper upon which it is written before the careless artist throws it away. Furvain thinks little of his talent (and talents are a somewhat magical gift in this tale) since his writings do not explore the inner workings of man's soul or psyche, but rather are fun little ditties written on drunken nights or at a whim on a walk. He truly is gifted and does not know it.
For me, reading about the minds and lifestyle of the idle privileged is a bore. However, I've been proven wrong in my assumptions a few times and treated to an unexpected growth of character that leaves me satisfied in the end. This short story does just that, and I've left much out of this review hoping you may find it intriguing enough to pursue on your own.
THE HAPPIEST DEAD BOY IN THE WORLD (OTHERLAND)
Tad Williams.
Ever wonder what your video game character is doing when you're away? Is it just a non-entity that stands idle, awaiting your return? Or does it go exploring, make its own friends, find something fun to do, get in trouble, defeat foes, make bad decisions, then pop back into place when you sign back in?
Add to that, it seems the player has a choice to upload his entire personality into the program, especially if the body's death is imminent, as is the case for Orlando, demi-god of the realm. Orlando lived a short life, dead by age 14 of Progeria, that mysterious childhood disease where the body ages far more rapidly than it's actual years. Apparently he uploaded himself into the game world, with his parents' blessing, and this way they make dates to continue to see eachother.
Cool concept, right? Which brings to light another question: what happened to his soul? (He hasn't pondered that one yet.) THIS question he does wonder: has he grown? His friends in the living world age, mature, get on with their lives. Now, as a being with god-like powers who doesn't need to use transporters to get from one game world to another, he can certainly change his sim, or looks/voice/dress/characteristics to suit the environment. But is he growing as a person? I suppose I'd need to actually read the book, or series, to find out. IF that avenue is ever explored.
BEYOND BETWEEN (PERN)
Anne McCaffrey
Oh, this wants to make me cry with both tears of joy and of sorrow. It's been long enough ago that I've read the Pern series, but I remember well enough. In a nutshell, Moreta and the Weyrleader's dragon Holth each make a minor navigational error and end up stuck in Between. Rescued by an historical figure from the first landing, one who could remember Earth, they work on and experiment with ways to reconnect to the world they did not mean to leave behind.
A very short, quick read, perhaps 90 minutes?
THE MESSENGER (RIFTWAR)
Raymond E Feist
He's gonna die. I just know he's gonna die. How do I know? Because the focus changed from the Earl to his distant cousin Terry and stayed there, to a boy too young to join the Corps and is kept in the Messenger division to keep safe. And what happens? He gets sent to the action to deliver orders of retreat. He's gonna die, that's all there is to it.
The enemy will get him. Oh. He has a cold. Hmmm, a rather nasty cold. You don't get feverish from a cold, do you? Maybe the enemy won't get him, maybe the pneumonia will. He's definitely gonna die.
THRESHOLD (SYMPHONY OF AGES)
Elizabeth Haydon
It's the end of the world as we know it... Just what the Sleeping Child is I do not fully understand, but when it arrived on earth from the heavens the First Cataclysm was created. Sounds like a meteor, right? But a meteor would not activate and cause another cataclysm, so perhaps I should read the series.
I enjoyed this read, and it was made clear from the beginning that the main characters, left behind by the King to maintain his rule on the island, were meant to weather the storm and likely perish in the effort. Most everybody else was evacuated to lands that, if not safer, at least weren't going to burn up or drown. And the ending was great, definitely not something I would have envisioned.
THE MONARCH OF THE GLEN (AMERICAN GODS)
Neil Gaiman
So. Choppy. Why? The story is really good, not at all what I expected. In fact, it was a mystery of sorts, but not the gumshoe type. And the vocabulary wasn't aimed at YA, but why such short sentences? I can understand for effect, but all the time? In fact, most of the sentences I'm writing are longer than what you may find... ok, maybe that's a lie. I'm hoping that the author's mind said “short story=short sentences”. It's good enough I want to check out other novels by him, but I really hope they are not all choppy.
INDOMITABLE (SHANNARA)
Terry Brooks
Excellently written, sentence structure mature, variety of lengths, and same with the paragraphs. I've only read the first of the Shanara series and was disappointed in what amounted to copying LOTR. Clearly, over how many books, the story has taken on a life of its own. I could say it was predictable, but an interesting twist manifested in a way that couldn't be prepared for. I'd recommend it, and I'll even pursue more of the series.
By the way, I met Mr Brooks at Emerald City Comic Con a couple years ago. He's a very nice, gracious author who autographed my non-Shannara book ;)
Robin Hobbs
As an introductory experience into reading Robin Hobbs, I am very impressed. At the beginning of this novelette she provided a summary of her works and their world. I'm intrigued to read more.
Homecoming's main character, whose name didn't appear until nearing the end, began as a pampered aristocrat. During the trip Carillion's chatter was filled with disgust at having to raise her own kids (the nanny deserted her), bemoan the fact her quarters were far below her station, that she had to rub elbows with the lower classes, and that a good deal of the fellow nobility looked down their noses at her. Led o believe her husband was taking her and the kids on a work trip, she learned along the way he had offended the rulers of their city and been banished.
The “woe is me” attitude grated on my nerves, but the artist in her found a way to make settling in the new and challenging world the shipload of people found themselves manageable. She grew. She grew immensely, and I came to like her quite a bit. Local library, here I come!
THE SWORN SWORD
George RR Martin
I came to learn more of the history of Westeros, how it was settled, about the First Men and the Children and the Targaryens. It takes place before anyone we've come to know was born or old enough to take rulership of their houses.
It wasn't until nearly the end of the tale that I learned how young Ser Duncan actually was, for the way he talked about the war I put him in his mid to late 20's. But then, as I write this, I realize that young people grow up “fast of a sudden”. As for Egg, well, I find it quite interesting that his father, the King of Westeros, squires his child to a mere hedge knight with no actual home of his own. A lad from Flea Bottom made into a knight.
THE YAZOO QUEEN
Orson Scott Card
With a few choice words the mind sinks into the southern US dialect, sometimes the gentry, sometimes the working class. As part of the Alvin Maker series, I believe this falls after the books have finished. Alvin and Arthur Stuart, because the latter is ONLY known by his first and last name together, choose a ferry to possibly free some slaves and in the meantime meet Abe Lincoln and Jim Bowie. It's a fun read and ended before I thought it could.
Although the setting is an alternate history, enough of the history makers are placed timely throughout and don't stray too far from their paths. We get a bit of historical fiction, if you will, that broadens the insight of the characters, taking skills such, as a photographic memory, and turning them into something slightly magical. Which, being fairly uncommon, makes perfect sense.
I'd forgotten how YA level the writing is, so be prepared for shorter sentence structures and vocabulary if you are an adult reading any of the Alvin Maker series.
LORD JOHN AND THE SUCCUBUS
Diana Gabaldon
If you are looking for same-sex love scenes, you'll be sorely disappointed. In fact, you won't find any sex scenes. We'll talk about it, sure, after all a Succubus is involved, but we won't read about passionate moments. Just lust, longing, and confusing signals.
Instead, what you'll be rewarded with is local superstition, culture, and John's powers of deductive reasoning, his persistence in getting to the bottom of the matter. His logic and mindset remain true to character. He knows his place within the army, be it subordinate or commander, and steps in to fill those roles as needed. And his compassion and advice when he comes across a young man just realizing his predilections are not socially acceptable, perhaps saving the boy's life with his words of wisdom.
MAJIPOOR: THE BOOK OF CHANGES
Robert Silverberg
The vast world of Majipoor and the 10,000 years of off-world settlers as seen through the eyes of the fifth son of the now highest ruler of all the lands, the Pontifex. Since rulership is neither hereditary nor elected, the only thing to gain is by being part of the noble privileged class is status, and, well, privilege.
The main character, Aithan Furvain, parties his life away until somewhere in his mid thirties, perhaps, he realizes what an unfulfilling lot his life has been. He chooses to undertake a solo expedition in a direction less well-traveled, hoping that the journey will fill that hole. And it does, but not in the way he expected, thought even in Aithan's mind he does not know exactly what he hopes to achieve. It's just not in his nature to plan ahead. Goals are elusive, so why set them in stone?
Did I mention he's a poet? Very little of his work gets published. In fact, when it does, it's only because his friends jot down his work or grab the paper upon which it is written before the careless artist throws it away. Furvain thinks little of his talent (and talents are a somewhat magical gift in this tale) since his writings do not explore the inner workings of man's soul or psyche, but rather are fun little ditties written on drunken nights or at a whim on a walk. He truly is gifted and does not know it.
For me, reading about the minds and lifestyle of the idle privileged is a bore. However, I've been proven wrong in my assumptions a few times and treated to an unexpected growth of character that leaves me satisfied in the end. This short story does just that, and I've left much out of this review hoping you may find it intriguing enough to pursue on your own.
THE HAPPIEST DEAD BOY IN THE WORLD (OTHERLAND)
Tad Williams.
Ever wonder what your video game character is doing when you're away? Is it just a non-entity that stands idle, awaiting your return? Or does it go exploring, make its own friends, find something fun to do, get in trouble, defeat foes, make bad decisions, then pop back into place when you sign back in?
Add to that, it seems the player has a choice to upload his entire personality into the program, especially if the body's death is imminent, as is the case for Orlando, demi-god of the realm. Orlando lived a short life, dead by age 14 of Progeria, that mysterious childhood disease where the body ages far more rapidly than it's actual years. Apparently he uploaded himself into the game world, with his parents' blessing, and this way they make dates to continue to see eachother.
Cool concept, right? Which brings to light another question: what happened to his soul? (He hasn't pondered that one yet.) THIS question he does wonder: has he grown? His friends in the living world age, mature, get on with their lives. Now, as a being with god-like powers who doesn't need to use transporters to get from one game world to another, he can certainly change his sim, or looks/voice/dress/characteristics to suit the environment. But is he growing as a person? I suppose I'd need to actually read the book, or series, to find out. IF that avenue is ever explored.
BEYOND BETWEEN (PERN)
Anne McCaffrey
Oh, this wants to make me cry with both tears of joy and of sorrow. It's been long enough ago that I've read the Pern series, but I remember well enough. In a nutshell, Moreta and the Weyrleader's dragon Holth each make a minor navigational error and end up stuck in Between. Rescued by an historical figure from the first landing, one who could remember Earth, they work on and experiment with ways to reconnect to the world they did not mean to leave behind.
A very short, quick read, perhaps 90 minutes?
THE MESSENGER (RIFTWAR)
Raymond E Feist
He's gonna die. I just know he's gonna die. How do I know? Because the focus changed from the Earl to his distant cousin Terry and stayed there, to a boy too young to join the Corps and is kept in the Messenger division to keep safe. And what happens? He gets sent to the action to deliver orders of retreat. He's gonna die, that's all there is to it.
The enemy will get him. Oh. He has a cold. Hmmm, a rather nasty cold. You don't get feverish from a cold, do you? Maybe the enemy won't get him, maybe the pneumonia will. He's definitely gonna die.
THRESHOLD (SYMPHONY OF AGES)
Elizabeth Haydon
It's the end of the world as we know it... Just what the Sleeping Child is I do not fully understand, but when it arrived on earth from the heavens the First Cataclysm was created. Sounds like a meteor, right? But a meteor would not activate and cause another cataclysm, so perhaps I should read the series.
I enjoyed this read, and it was made clear from the beginning that the main characters, left behind by the King to maintain his rule on the island, were meant to weather the storm and likely perish in the effort. Most everybody else was evacuated to lands that, if not safer, at least weren't going to burn up or drown. And the ending was great, definitely not something I would have envisioned.
THE MONARCH OF THE GLEN (AMERICAN GODS)
Neil Gaiman
So. Choppy. Why? The story is really good, not at all what I expected. In fact, it was a mystery of sorts, but not the gumshoe type. And the vocabulary wasn't aimed at YA, but why such short sentences? I can understand for effect, but all the time? In fact, most of the sentences I'm writing are longer than what you may find... ok, maybe that's a lie. I'm hoping that the author's mind said “short story=short sentences”. It's good enough I want to check out other novels by him, but I really hope they are not all choppy.
INDOMITABLE (SHANNARA)
Terry Brooks
Excellently written, sentence structure mature, variety of lengths, and same with the paragraphs. I've only read the first of the Shanara series and was disappointed in what amounted to copying LOTR. Clearly, over how many books, the story has taken on a life of its own. I could say it was predictable, but an interesting twist manifested in a way that couldn't be prepared for. I'd recommend it, and I'll even pursue more of the series.
By the way, I met Mr Brooks at Emerald City Comic Con a couple years ago. He's a very nice, gracious author who autographed my non-Shannara book ;)
July 6, 2024
Read The Messenger by Raymond E. Feist
July 3, 2011
Bardzo nierówna antologia, w której teksty bardzo dobre, czy wręcz wybitne sąsiadują z miałką, pozbawioną polotu i ciekawej fabuły, kanoniczną do bólu fantasy. "Legendy II" doskonale sprawdzają się jednak, jako "próbnik" dla tych, którzy zainteresowani są pewnymi sztandarowymi dla gatunku cyklami fantasy, jakkolwiek wcześniej chcieliby się przekonać, czym dana seria się charakteryzuje, tudzież jakim stylem operują jej znani autorzy.
Po lekturze drugiego tomu "Legend", nabrałem solidnego apetytu na więcej Robin Hobb, Orsona Scotta Carda i Elizabeth Haydon, z którymi zapoznanie się - do tej pory - z różnych przyczyn odkładałem. Ponadto swoim, w zasadzie pozbawionym elementów nadprzyrodzonych, opowiadaniem, zaintrygowała mnie Diana Gabaldon, o której - wstyd przyznać - wcześniej nie słyszałem. Jej cykl "Outlander" to dla mnie murowana pozycja do przeczytania w najbliższej przyszłości.
Z pisarzy już znanych, jak zwykle nie zawodzi George R. R. Martin - opowiadanie mniej smakowite, niż pierwsze z mini-cyklu o przygodach Duncana i Jaja, ale i tak dopracowane fabularnie i na wysokim, warsztatowym poziomie. Natomiast nowela z "Innego świata" Tada Williamsa jest pozycją przeznaczoną tylko i wyłącznie dla tych, którzy mają już tetralogię za sobą, bowiem zarówno wprowadzenie do niego, jak i ono samo roi się od szczegółów zdradzających rozwiązania kluczowych wątków fabularnych i zakończenia tego cyklu, oraz stanowi niejako jego rozszerzony epilog. Miło było również powrócić do świata "Amerykańskich bogów" Neila Gaimana - ten pan również nie rozczarowuje.
Bardzo słabo wypadają opowiadania pozostałych pisarzy. Silverberg, McCaffrey, Feist i Brooks promują swoje najsłynniejsze cykle nowelkami z pola klasycznego fantasy, pełnymi nużących opisów, nieciekawymi fabularnie i pełnymi patosu najgorszego rodzaju. I chyba raczej skierowanymi do młodszego, dopiero co zaczynającego przygodę z fantasy czytelnika.
Antologię - tak czy inaczej - nie tylko dlatego, że znajdzie się tu w większości opowiadania bardzo dobre, ale również z uwagi na możliwość zapoznania się z tymi słabszymi może uchronić czytelnika przed zmarnowaniem czasu, tudzież pieniędzy w przyszłości.
January 28, 2013
I've read three of the stories in this book so far, all of which were excellent. I am going to come back and read the rest in-between other books I think. The ones I have read thus far:
The Sworn Sword - George R.R. Martin: This is a continuation of the Hedge Knight, which is set in the Song of Ice and Fire world. I love these two characters (Dunk and Egg), and both this and its predecessor are excellent stories. They read like they could be seamlessly integrated as a few chapters (each) somewhere in the Ice and Fire novels. Except that the time frame is earlier.
The Monarch of the Glen - Neil Gaiman: Related to American Gods, and take place after the action of that book. I won't mention much here for fear of giving away any of Am. Gods. Suffice it to say, if you liked the novel, this short story will also be interesting.
Homecoming - Robin Hobb: This one came as a surprise. I hadn't read anything from Robin Hobb before, and was not expecting to like this after a few pages. But it turned out to be an excellent story. It follows a woman's personal journal entries, written about her experience on a ship sailing to some destination that she and her family have been banished to. When the people on this ship end up *off* the ship and living in a strange swamp area awaiting rescue, and some rather unnatural things begin happening, the story really takes off.
The Sworn Sword - George R.R. Martin: This is a continuation of the Hedge Knight, which is set in the Song of Ice and Fire world. I love these two characters (Dunk and Egg), and both this and its predecessor are excellent stories. They read like they could be seamlessly integrated as a few chapters (each) somewhere in the Ice and Fire novels. Except that the time frame is earlier.
The Monarch of the Glen - Neil Gaiman: Related to American Gods, and take place after the action of that book. I won't mention much here for fear of giving away any of Am. Gods. Suffice it to say, if you liked the novel, this short story will also be interesting.
Homecoming - Robin Hobb: This one came as a surprise. I hadn't read anything from Robin Hobb before, and was not expecting to like this after a few pages. But it turned out to be an excellent story. It follows a woman's personal journal entries, written about her experience on a ship sailing to some destination that she and her family have been banished to. When the people on this ship end up *off* the ship and living in a strange swamp area awaiting rescue, and some rather unnatural things begin happening, the story really takes off.
August 24, 2012
In some ways I thought this collection was even better than Legends I. There were several authors in this anthology whom I had never heard of and whose stories I enjoyed immensely: Diana Gabaldon and Elizabeth Haydon particularly, although Robin Hobb's "Homecoming" and Neil Gaiman's "The Monarch of the Glen" were also good. Orson Scott Card's Alvin Maker story was just as good as the one in Legends I, as was Raymond Feist's Riftwar story. Feist's descriptions of military campaigns are clear and interesting to read. In some ways his two Riftwar stories remind me of the battles between the Seanchan and Rand's forces in The Wheel of Time series, although without all of the kooky side plots. Once again, Robert Silverberg's story stood out as the least interesting, and I was disappointed in the uninspired offerings by Tad Williams and Terry Brooks, two writers whose books I have loved in the past. Finally, Anne McCaffrey's Pern story was moving and, I thought, much better than the one in Legends I. Overall a great book--now I have to read some of these new authors before I pick up another anthology.
March 16, 2010
This contains short stories by 6 authors:
# Neil Gaiman
# Anne McCaffrey
# Tad Williams
# Robin Hobb
# Robert Silverberg
# Raymond E. Feist
I hadn't read anything by Robert Silverberg before and will now track down a full length work or two of his. Anne McCaffrey was just as you'd suspect (I read about 4 of her books in the past and was sated; this story was fine, but isn't enticing me back for more). Tad Williams was better in short form than i remember his Otherland being. Robin Hobb came back into my good graces (i started out loving his Assassin's trilogy, but halfway through the 3rd book just couldn't be bothered to care about the characters anymore; i've been fearful of trying other of her books since then). Feist's story is set back in the Riftwar, and reminded me of the good early books rather than the Krondor or Serpentine series. And i fear i might have had too high of hopes for Gaiman's piece, because it was fine but didn't quite satisfy the way i expected.
overall, a good collection and worth reading. but heck, we knew that from the author list. :)
# Neil Gaiman
# Anne McCaffrey
# Tad Williams
# Robin Hobb
# Robert Silverberg
# Raymond E. Feist
I hadn't read anything by Robert Silverberg before and will now track down a full length work or two of his. Anne McCaffrey was just as you'd suspect (I read about 4 of her books in the past and was sated; this story was fine, but isn't enticing me back for more). Tad Williams was better in short form than i remember his Otherland being. Robin Hobb came back into my good graces (i started out loving his Assassin's trilogy, but halfway through the 3rd book just couldn't be bothered to care about the characters anymore; i've been fearful of trying other of her books since then). Feist's story is set back in the Riftwar, and reminded me of the good early books rather than the Krondor or Serpentine series. And i fear i might have had too high of hopes for Gaiman's piece, because it was fine but didn't quite satisfy the way i expected.
overall, a good collection and worth reading. but heck, we knew that from the author list. :)
October 9, 2012
3.5 stars overall.
Fantastic story by Robin Hobb called Homecoming (4 stars).
The Sworn Sword (the reason I bought this anthology) was another fantastic Dunk and Egg tale (5 stars). "A sworn sword owes his lord the truth." We get some insight into Bloodraven that I can't help but think will be important later...
Enjoyed The Book of Changes by Robert Silverberg (3 stars).
The Pern story (Beyond Between) was okay (2.5 stars). I think I might have appreciated it more if I followed the books.
I really liked "The Messenger" by Feist (3.5 stars). It was a very good military-focused story about the struggles of a messenger who pushed on with his duties despite the dangers. Seemed very gritty and realistic to me.
Also liked "The Symphony of the Ages" by Elizabeth Haydon (3.5 starts).
"Monarch of the Glen" by Neil Gaiman and "Indomitable" by Terry Brooks were both solid stories for me (3 stars). In both case, this was my first time reading them.
Fantastic story by Robin Hobb called Homecoming (4 stars).
The Sworn Sword (the reason I bought this anthology) was another fantastic Dunk and Egg tale (5 stars). "A sworn sword owes his lord the truth." We get some insight into Bloodraven that I can't help but think will be important later...
Enjoyed The Book of Changes by Robert Silverberg (3 stars).
The Pern story (Beyond Between) was okay (2.5 stars). I think I might have appreciated it more if I followed the books.
I really liked "The Messenger" by Feist (3.5 stars). It was a very good military-focused story about the struggles of a messenger who pushed on with his duties despite the dangers. Seemed very gritty and realistic to me.
Also liked "The Symphony of the Ages" by Elizabeth Haydon (3.5 starts).
"Monarch of the Glen" by Neil Gaiman and "Indomitable" by Terry Brooks were both solid stories for me (3 stars). In both case, this was my first time reading them.
October 7, 2011
Realm of the Elderlings: "Homecoming" by Robin Hobb - 2.5 stars
A Song of Ice and Fire: "The Sworn Sword" by George R.R. Martin - 3 stars
The Tales of Alvin Maker: "The Yazoo Queen" by Orson Scott Card - 3 stars
Outlander: "Lord John and the Succubus" by Diana Gabaldon - 4 stars
Majipoor: "The Book of Changes" by Robert Silverberg - 2 stars
Otherland: "The Happiest Dead Boy in the World" by Tad Williams - 4 stars
Pern: "Beyond Between" by Anne McCaffrey - 2 stars
The Riftwar: "The Messenger" by Raymond E. Feist - 1 star
The Symphony of Ages: "Threshold" by Elizabeth Haydon - 4 stars
American Gods: "The Monarch of the Glen" by Neil Gaiman - 4 stars
Shannara: "Indomitable" by Terry Brooks - 2 stars
A Song of Ice and Fire: "The Sworn Sword" by George R.R. Martin - 3 stars
The Tales of Alvin Maker: "The Yazoo Queen" by Orson Scott Card - 3 stars
Outlander: "Lord John and the Succubus" by Diana Gabaldon - 4 stars
Majipoor: "The Book of Changes" by Robert Silverberg - 2 stars
Otherland: "The Happiest Dead Boy in the World" by Tad Williams - 4 stars
Pern: "Beyond Between" by Anne McCaffrey - 2 stars
The Riftwar: "The Messenger" by Raymond E. Feist - 1 star
The Symphony of Ages: "Threshold" by Elizabeth Haydon - 4 stars
American Gods: "The Monarch of the Glen" by Neil Gaiman - 4 stars
Shannara: "Indomitable" by Terry Brooks - 2 stars
January 22, 2015
One of my favorite fantasy books of all time, this collection of novellas is easy to read (all the works are short!) and gives you a good overview of definitive authors in the genre. It's a good place to find new writers worth reading.
Favorites:
1. "Lord John and the Succubus" by Diana Gabaldon.
2. "Homecoming" by Robin Hobb.
3. "The Yazoo Queen" by Orson Scott Card.
Favorites:
1. "Lord John and the Succubus" by Diana Gabaldon.
2. "Homecoming" by Robin Hobb.
3. "The Yazoo Queen" by Orson Scott Card.
August 15, 2011
I had a longer review written then lost it.
I only read the stories penned by Raymond E. Feist and George RR Martin. 'The Messenger' by Feist is part of his Riftwar Saga and while a well-told tale it was certainly nothing to crow about. On the other hand, 'The Sworn Sword' by Martin made me want to read the other Dunk and Egg tales, as there was enough in there to fill out a novel.
I am a fan of both these authors so I was quite satisfied with their offerings here.
I would read more but have to read reserve-listed books from my library which I'm quite eager to read.
I only read the stories penned by Raymond E. Feist and George RR Martin. 'The Messenger' by Feist is part of his Riftwar Saga and while a well-told tale it was certainly nothing to crow about. On the other hand, 'The Sworn Sword' by Martin made me want to read the other Dunk and Egg tales, as there was enough in there to fill out a novel.
I am a fan of both these authors so I was quite satisfied with their offerings here.
I would read more but have to read reserve-listed books from my library which I'm quite eager to read.
August 5, 2011
Sadly, Legends II lacks the consistency of its predecessor. Some of the stories are excellent - the Otherland story, the Gaiman - and some of them seem forced - in particular the Pern story and the Shannara, which, even though I have not read the novel its related to, feels like a tacked-on retread of an otherwise completed work. Overall it's worthwhile, and it's a nice range of worlds and authors, but it feels too much like a runners-up volume.
July 21, 2015
This book of short novellas by top sci-fi writers is a fantastic way to check out their writing without committing to an 800-1000 page book. The stories are good, the writing top notch, and one or two of them, I hadn't actually read the series which they complement, and I think I will. If you have already read these authors, then it's a great way to revisit their worlds with new stories.
February 20, 2011
The great thing about anthologies is discovering writers you know you should have read but have never got around to. That's especially true in this one, where authors offer short stories that take place in the worlds that made them famous.
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