The Monster's Legacy

by Andre Norton

In this exciting new fantasy novel by a Grand Master of Science Fiction, Sarita is in the last year of apprencticeship to the Embroider Dame Arglas. When the Countess Wanda's infant is left in her care, Sarita flees with the child to the forest where she befriends one of the Earl's huntsmen. Together the three hide in the mountains until they can defend the Earl's kingdom and bring peace to the land.

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Fiction, Science Fiction Fantasy

160 pages, Hardcover

First published May 1, 1996

About the author

Andre Norton, born Alice Mary Norton, was a pioneering American author of science fiction and fantasy, widely regarded as the Grande Dame of those genres. She also wrote historical and contemporary fiction, publishing under the pen names Andre Alice Norton, Andrew North, and Allen Weston. She launched her career in 1934 with The Prince Commands, adopting the name “Andre” to appeal to a male readership. After working for the Cleveland Library System and the Library of Congress, she began publishing science fiction under “Andrew North” and fantasy under her own name. She became a full-time writer in 1958 and was known for her prolific output, including Star Man’s Son, 2250 A.D. and Witch World, the latter spawning a long-running series and shared universe. Norton was a founding member of the Swordsmen and Sorcerers' Guild of America and authored Quag Keep, the first novel based on the Dungeons & Dragons game. She influenced generations of writers, including Lois McMaster Bujold and Mercedes Lackey. Among her many honors were being the first woman named Gandalf Grand Master of Fantasy and SFWA Grand Master. In her later years, she established the High Hallack Library to support research in genre fiction. Her legacy continues with the Andre Norton Award for young adult science fiction and fantasy.

Reviews

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had read this book long ago in my teen years, but had forgotten so much of it. So I decided to buy a copy to add to my library. Reading it again was just as exciting as when I first read it! Andre wrote in a sort of medieval style English. The kind of old way that I sometimes wish people still used. You follow Sarita and Rhys as they try to escape the Keep with the lord's son, Valoris. They have to keep him alive and reunite him with his father. The go to a monster's lands and find something very surprising as they fight against the dark evil in the world.
I love the suspense, the underlying unnatural, and the adventure that two strangers find themselves in. Andre brings the frustrations to life while realistically solving them. And all while being in medieval times. And with some fantasy! Loved it :)

[Kris · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Andre Norton that I don't remember reading before. Pretty standard YA fare, female protagonist finds unexpected strength when thrown into a difficult situation. Partnered with a resourceful young ranger, the two of them (and the toddler son of their lord) must find a way to save their land.

[Marissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an interesting tale about the two surviving members of an Earl's staff who take care of his son, who is just a toddler at the time of the attack. The two have developing magical powers to deal with on their journey to find the Earl. Enjoyable read.

[Caitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Need to find time to finish this book!