Magic Lost, Trouble Found

Magic Lost, Trouble Found (2007) Lisa Shearin

I came across Lisa Shearin through her SPI files, which I thoroughly enjoyed. So I decided I should probably look into checking out her Raine Benares. I then read a short story set in this world that was a prequel to the first book. It also was interesting, so I decided to take a gamble.

So how’d that work out for me?

First, this is straight-up fantasy, which I don’t read a lot of anymore.

Second, this is, I now realize, book one in a six book story arc.

Did I enjoy the story? Yes. I found some of the names confusing, especially having two main characters, both male, whose first names started with P. Piaris and Phaelan aren’t that similar, I know, but at a glance (I read very quickly) they look similar, and so I kept losing track of who was who.

Despite that occasional confusion, I enjoyed the writing quite a bit.

My godfather didn’t keep anything of value except his privacy, but that he held dear above all else.

a man didn’t have to have power to be corrupted, but it sure happened faster when he did.

I also appreciated Raine’s fashion ideals.

I approved of the leather and even the corset I’d have to wear underneath. I wouldn’t be comfortable, but at least I’d have marginal protection against pointy steel objects that went stab in the night.

That is one of the nicest things about straight-up fantasy: you can mix different eras and sensibilities without offending history. So you can have a female fighter who wears trouser at the same time you have women wearing corsets and fancy gowns.

So am I going to read the rest of this series?

Most likely not.

I enjoyed the story and the characters, but not enough to commit to reading five more books to get the full story. Which brings us back to why I don’t read much straight-up fantasy anymore. I don’t want to commit to a long series that probably has cliff hangers. I want a series I can read some of, then take a break, and come back later and jump right back in without feeling lost.

So, it was a good book, I just don’t want to read five more like it to find out what happens.
Rating: 7/10

Published by Ace

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