Tyler Oliver’s Reviews > Appendix N: The Eldritch Roots of Dungeons and Dragons > Status Update

Short Story #6 - A Hero at the Gates: 3.5/5
Enjoyable! The imagery was well described and the plot was interesting. The twist I think could have been foreshadowed in a way that rewards the reveal more, but clever nonetheless. I wish the main character was more nuanced, the roguish, yet undoubtedly good archetype is a bit over done in older fantasy.

Short Story #5 - Turjan of Miir: 2.5/5
Almost passes the Betchel Test… Reminded me of how old some of the short stories are in this book, as it falls face first into the sci fi trope of like “born sexy yesterday”. I somewhat enjoyed the half-assed attempt at the philosophy of beauty.

Short story #4 - Empire of Necromancers: 4/5
Quite enjoyed it! Definitely some anti-colonial themes. Also really enjoyed the perspective of ‘undead’ being conscious beings and how they would react to being controlled. Finally, I liked the necromancers being portrayed as these greedy, opulent and selfish beings rather than being a typical evil mage.

Short story #3 - The Jewels in the Forest: 3/5
Fun! I like the archetype of the tall, brutish character who is deft and nimble. Also like the idea of fear and ‘horror’ coming from the unknown. Also reminded me of a video I saw on magic systems and how in modern times we try to define magic too much, when magic is the explanation for not knowing and I can see in this how this makes a story more whimsical.

Short story #2 - The Tale of Hauk: 4/5
Really enjoyed it. Thought the idea of undead having a reason to be undead is more interesting than just zombies. Also really enjoyed the interaction between Hauk and Alfhid and especially her line “No… Did I not swear? What doom awaits an oath-breaker”.