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The Misenchanted Sword

Book 1 in the series:Legend of Ethshar

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The Misenchanted Sword by Lawrence Watt Evans is a refreshing change from the usual fantasy tropes. The main character is intelligent and decent, stuck in a war that's gone on for a long time. The story focuses on a character and how the character is changed by magic and war, rather than the common fantasy plot of saving the world and defeating an overpowering enemy. The book is described as short and to the point, with a main character who is an ordinary person with some small talent for magic and a seriously flawed sword, making it more interesting than typical fantasy novels.

Characters:

The characters are relatable, particularly the protagonist Valder, and add depth through their interactions and experiences in a fantastical setting.

Writing/Prose:

The prose is light and engaging, with a humorous and satirical tone that captivates readers and keeps the narrative flowing.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers on an ordinary soldier, Valder, who navigates the challenges of a misenchanted sword while dealing with the realities of war, emphasizing personal stakes over epic conflicts.

Setting:

The setting is a richly imagined fantasy world featuring unique magical systems that feel both believable and immersive.

Pacing:

The pacing is brisk and engaging, ensuring readers stay invested in the story even during slower moments.
The marsh stank, with a sharp, briny stench that seemed to fill Valder’s head. He stared out across the maze of tall grass and shallow water for a long moment and then reluctantly marched onward, into...

Notes:

The Misenchanted Sword is set in the world of Ethshar, which features a variety of magical systems.
Lawrence Watt-Evans conceived the Ethshar setting originally for a Dungeons and Dragons game.
The main character, Valder, is an ordinary soldier rather than a grand hero, making the story more relatable.
The story revolves around Valder encountering a reclusive wizard who enchants his sword, leading to unexpected consequences.
Unlike many fantasy novels, this book does not have a 'save the world' plot or a 'Dark Lord.'
The narrative focuses on personal struggles and the changes the characters undergo due to magic and war.
Watt-Evans is known for his engaging writing style that keeps readers turning the pages.
Many readers enjoy how the book subverts common fantasy tropes and clichés.
The author continues to publish books in the Ethshar series, showing his prolific nature as a writer.
The Misenchanted Sword combines humor and heavier themes, making it a unique read in the fantasy genre.

From The Publisher:

Warlockry has been rare in Ethshar . . . until The Night of Madness, when a mysterious object falls from the heavens, sending out a wave of magic in the form of a dream. All who have the dream awaken in panic. But some of them also awaken to the power or Warlockry.

Throughout the land these newly made warlocks wreak havoc; looting and rioting, petty personal revenge, and uncontrollable madness run rampant. Worse, people are hearing a mysterious, irresistible call from which they never return.

Into this chaos steps the power-hungry Lord Faran, who seeks to use his new warlock powers to overthrow the government and take possession of the throne.

Who will dare to oppose him?

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About the Author:

Born and raised in Massachusetts, Lawrence Watt-Evans has been a full-time writer and editor for more than twenty years. The author of more than thirty novels, over one hundred short stories, and more than one hundred and fifty published articles, Watt-Evans writes primarily in the fields of science fiction, fantasy, horror, and comic books. His short fiction has won the Hugo Award as well as twice winning the Asimov's Readers Award. His fiction has been published in England, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain, Poland, France, Hungary, and Russia.

He served as president of the Horror Writers Association from 1994 to 1996 and after leaving that office was the recipient of HWA's first service award ever. He is also a member of Novelists Inc., and the Science Fiction Writers of America. Married with two children, he and his wife Julie live in Maryland.

 
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