Castle of Wizardry

Castle of Wizardry (1984) David Eddings

The fourth book in David Edding’s Belgariad finds Garion and the rest of the company returning to Riva. Belgarath has collapsed from exhaustion, and events conspire to place Garion in command of the group. We also see him quickly developing his skills with the Will and the World, as well as the result of the work he has done as they have traveled.

Although this is a good book, it’s not one of my favorites, and there are things that bother me about this story, primarily Ce’Nedra. It’s possible she could be more of a brat, but it’s hard to say how. Luckily, she recovers quickly, so you don’t spend too much time being annoyed with her.

I do, however, enjoy Garion and Silk and Belgarath traveling together. As I’ve said before, Silk is one of my favorite characters, and I love his running commentary on everything (especially Drasnia).

Now it’s been a very long time since I read this book for the first time, but most of the events are not going to be much of a surprise to you, but it hardly matters, because it’s Garion’s surprise that is most important. I can easily believe that he did not know what was going on–and why should he have?

The other part I very much like is the time Garion spends with Adara. Garion’s relationship with her is very important, and something I think he desperately needed, especially after having spent so much time in the company of adults.

Yes, it’s the fourth book of a five book series, so there are events that have to happen, but for the most part, they are events I enjoy watching unfold.
Rating: 8/10

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