In this sequel to "Bedlam's Bard," and "Beyond World's End," Eric Banyon discovers the existence of a younger brother, who has run away from home, and sets out to find him. His brother, like him, has the Bardic gift, which makes locating him tricky. His brother, meanwhile, has taken up with two runaways, a girl called Ace, and an elf, Jaycie, both of whom are fleeing their own private hells. And as usual in these books, there is a Dark Force, this time one who is preying on street children. As a shelter volunteer, Eric's friend Hosea, who is also a gifted Bard, becomes aware of this. With their friends, both elven and human, they seek to find this monster and protect the city's homeless children.
Like the other books in the series, this one has way too many minor characters, especially with sound-alike names. There is a Tatiana, Juliana and Oriana for starters. After awhile, even the most attentive reader might lose track of them and how all the minor plotlines connect. However, it's a decent read for die-hard Lackey fans.
|
Mad Maudlin (Bedlam's Bard) Books In Print, Audio Books.