Books I Read in April
Black Dogs Part 1: House of Diamond
Ursula Vernon
As a fan of both Vernon's art and writing, I was looking forward to giving her first published novel a glowing review. Unfortunately, it's not her best work. The story is cliche, to the point of being Star Warsian (a naive young protagonist gets drawn into an international conflict, meets up with and is mentored by an old warrior and discovers a rare magical gift she didn't know she had), which is a shortcoming I could easily forgive, except that the writing also lacks much of Vernon's characteristic humor and quirkiness. This is probably due to the fact that Vernon actually wrote it some years ago, apparently before she had fully developed her current style. A few scenes do come close though, like when an elven traveling companion has to give the main character The Talk.
In addition, the love interest is annoyingly emo (he does magic by cutting himself), and the main character never seems to stop vomiting. The first two times, I thought it added realism to the story, but after the fourth, fifth and sixth vomit scenes, it was just excessive.
I don't mean for my review to sound so harsh. Black dogs is an enjoyable read and has some good characters, but it probably should not be your first introduction to Ursula Vernon's writing. I suggest getting the Digger collections first.
Arte of Defence: An Introduction to the Use of the Rapier
William E. Wilson
The first third of this book is devoted to the history, terminology and culture of the rapier. The next two thirds cover the actual use of the weapon. This strikes a good balance, in my opinion, and Arte of Defence is an excellent introduction and beginner's guide to rapier fencing.
Ursula Vernon
As a fan of both Vernon's art and writing, I was looking forward to giving her first published novel a glowing review. Unfortunately, it's not her best work. The story is cliche, to the point of being Star Warsian (a naive young protagonist gets drawn into an international conflict, meets up with and is mentored by an old warrior and discovers a rare magical gift she didn't know she had), which is a shortcoming I could easily forgive, except that the writing also lacks much of Vernon's characteristic humor and quirkiness. This is probably due to the fact that Vernon actually wrote it some years ago, apparently before she had fully developed her current style. A few scenes do come close though, like when an elven traveling companion has to give the main character The Talk.
In addition, the love interest is annoyingly emo (he does magic by cutting himself), and the main character never seems to stop vomiting. The first two times, I thought it added realism to the story, but after the fourth, fifth and sixth vomit scenes, it was just excessive.
I don't mean for my review to sound so harsh. Black dogs is an enjoyable read and has some good characters, but it probably should not be your first introduction to Ursula Vernon's writing. I suggest getting the Digger collections first.
Arte of Defence: An Introduction to the Use of the Rapier
William E. Wilson
The first third of this book is devoted to the history, terminology and culture of the rapier. The next two thirds cover the actual use of the weapon. This strikes a good balance, in my opinion, and Arte of Defence is an excellent introduction and beginner's guide to rapier fencing.