Tomes of Other Realms: Pool of Radiance: Ruins of Myth Drannor

Tomes of Other Realms

Welcome to the lands of swords and sorcery, where people live and die by the sword and only the bravest of souls stand between the common folk and the forces of darkness. Join me as I wander different planes and hear the stories of their greatest defenders and the sagas of their worthiest warriors.

W A R N I N G !

This review does not represent the opinions of the general public. It reflects my personal thoughts and opinions on the book.

That said, on to the review!

Title: Pool of Radiance: Ruins of Myth Drannor
Author: Carrie Bebris
Publisher: Wizards of the Coast
Format: Paperback
Copyright Date: 2001

Kestrel went to Valjevo Castle to add more to her hoard of stolen riches. She didn't expect to get drawn into a struggle for survival in the ruins of the fabled city of Myth Drannor, but that's what happened. Now she, the paladin Corran, the guardsman Durwyn, and the mage Ghleanna are trapped in the city, and their only hope for escaping and, incidentally, saving the world, is if they can wrest control of the Mythal from the Cult of the Dragon. That, however, may be the least of their worries. First they have to avoid getting killed by the fiends and monsters that have taken over the ruined elf city, and evade the roaming drow tribes. So for the time being, just surviving the night is something to strive for. But in the end, even if they manage to survive that long, will they be able to stand against an archmage and a dracolich?

Pool of Radiance: Ruins of Myth Drannor revisits some of the first Forgotten Realms novels ever written. It even makes mention in passing to those books and the events that took place in them.

One thing which I've only rarely found in any of these books is a thief as the main character. It hasn't been unheard of, only uncommon. I enjoyed having Kestrel as the focus, though. It was interesting to follow along as she struggles with her own conscience and larcenous tendencies, trying to decide whether she should continue helping her companions or look out for Number One and split (even if it means losing the protection offered by her companions' abilities). I can't recall ever encountering the kind of moral dilemmas Kestrel faces in any other thief-focused novel. It was highly refreshing.

Pool of Radiance: Ruins of Myth Drannor continues, however unknowingly, the plot originated in the original Pool of Radiance. You don't need to read that book, but it would be nice if you could! Now, if Wizards of the Coast would just rerelease those books...

Rating: Thumbs up! Since when does a larceny-devoted, light-handed thief get to be the hero of the day?

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This page posted September 16, 2002.

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