The Reedsmith of Zendar

Author Daniel Side sent me a print copy of The Reedsmith of Zendar for review.

The Reedsmith of Zendar is the kind of fantasy I really enjoy getting into. Set in a low technology world (every civilization has some technology right?), we have a story that involves, at least peripherally, the hunt for the lost technology of their ancestors. But this story is about  people, not technology.

The heart of The Reedsmith of Zendar is the quest of a father to rescue his daughter. Perhaps not a "quest" in the true epic fantasy tradition, but in my mind a quest none the less.

Our hero Andar is the reedsmith immortalized in the title. His daughter Dreanna is the focus of two different bad guys with two different motivations. Andar undertakes what can only be termed an epic adventure to save her. The world of Zendar can be a brutal one with many ways for the unprepared to come to harm.

Mr. Side does an excellent job of bringing the reader into the world of Zendar, we feel what the characters feel. Several times I felt my heart racing in response to the action I was reading.

We have two different peoples inhabiting Zendar and the only shortcoming of The Reedsmith of Zendar for me, is that the how and why of these two different groups is not more fully explained. Since it is not the main focus of the story, it doesn't detract that much.

What does keep the reader engaged is the character driven story; the love of a father for his daughter, his struggle to protect his family while helping them grow and mature, his sense of honor and proper behavior. He is, like most good fathers, infuriating and endearing, heroic and bumbling, harsh and nurturing by turns.

We have a tale of adventure and intrigue, sexual coming of age, hate, revenge, love, romance, and emotional rebirth. As such, we have graphic violence, a bit less graphic sex, physical and mental abuse, humor, friendship, loyalty and honor. A lot going on in one very good story.

The Reedsmith of Zendar is a thoroughly delightful read. If you are a fantasy fan (and if your not, you should be), epic or otherwise, I highly recommend you give The Reedsmith of Zendar by Daniel Side, a look. I think you will find a book worth spending some time with. Enjoy!

Mike