Review: _Intrument of Fate_ by Christie Golden

A young woman gets pulled into a dangerous quest to deliver a message to stop a devestating war that changes her life. Her story is told in the Fantasy novel Instrument of Fate by Christie Golden. Set in a medieval style world of humans, elves and other magical beings, the book is made entertaining for readers through its characters, plot and themes.

The characters of the book are sympathetic for readers to identify with. Gillien Songespynner is part of a traveling performer family. She plays music and want to be a bard. Many hardships she experiences keeps her growing throughout the book, making her sympathetic. Daric Rhan comes into Gillien’s life when he is hired by an elf to protect her from dark forces. He has a problem with alcohol because of a troubled past. These main characters find strength in each other to survive their ordeals. Ms. Golden makes the characters realistic through subtle, vivid descriptions.

Next, the plot delivers plenty of action to keep readers hooked. The book starts with Gillien winning a music contest. An elf gives her an expensive, magical lute and tells her to give it to the Queen Mother in a far away city as an important message. Things turn dark for Gillien as she finds herself pursued by a vicious killer. She gains help when Daric joins her to help protect her. He hates the Ghil, a possum-like species that enslave humans. Events continue to build up to a satisfying conclusion due to the author’s tight plotting.

Finally, the themes covered in the novel keeps it entertaining until the end. The main theme of overcoming hardships is the strongest in the book. Main characters suffer through many difficult trials, forcing them to grow stronger as individuals. Friendship is another theme covered with two disparate people developing a relationship by surviving together. Ms. Golden’s choice of themes keeps the story interesting for readers.

Instrument of Fate by Christie Golden is an entertaining Fantasy novel that contains music, elves and magic. Sympathetic characters, an action plot and familiar themes keeps the suspense high and hooks readers for a nice reading experience. The book is out of print, so might be difficult to find, but worthwhile for an enjoyable read.

Some Gift Ideas for Christmas 2007

I apologize for the delay with this articles. This week’s article isn’t a formal one with paragraphs. I felt it just important to list some ideas for gift giving this year.

Books:

For gritty Epic Fantasy there is Steve Erikson’s Malazan books.

Conclusion to Terri Goodkind’s “Wizard’s First Rule” series with Confessor.

Urban Fantasy:

Widdershins by Charles de Lint

Magic Bites by Ilona Andrews

Books by Patty Briggs

Harry Dresden books by Jim Butcher


Software for writers:

Scrivner http://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener.html

SuperNotecard

DVDs:

“Transformers”
Harry Potter movies
“Mists of Avalon”

Magazines:

Realms of Fantasy http://www.rofmagazine.com

Blackgate http://www.blackgate.com

Starlog http://www.starlog.com

I might update this article during the week with more ideas. Have a Merry Christmas!! :)