Title: Amber and Iron
Author: Margaret Weis
First published January 1, 2005
373 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780786940868 (ISBN10: 0786940867)
Rating: 3.96
Overview
Welcome to the world of Harmony, where Rainshadow Island holds a treacherous secret. Hidden beneath its surface lies a dangerous catacomb maze that few dare to explore.
For Anna, managing a small hotel and tavern on the island is a chance to start anew. However, when a group of ghost hunters arrive on the island, Anna’s past comes back to haunt her.
To make matters worse, her ex-boyfriend shows up, claiming he wants to rekindle their romance, and a powerful newcomer shows a keen interest in her. As the mysteries of Rainshadow Island unravel, Anna finds herself caught in a web of desire and danger that even she may not be able to escape.
About the Author
As a fantasy novelist, I am one of the original creators of the Dragonlance game world. Throughout my career, I have written a plethora of novels and short stories that are set in the world of Krynn, as well as in other original worlds, such as Darksword, Rose of the Prophet, Star of the Guardians, DeathGate, Dragonvarld, Sovereign Stone, Dragonships, and the Dragon Brigade.
My daughter, Elizabeth Baldwin, and I have also co-authored two paranormal romance novels, Fallen Angel and Warrior Angel. I am a graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia, and currently reside in Wisconsin with my dogs, Max, Dixie, Joey the Thug, and Clancy the Hooligan.
At the moment, I am working on the third book in the Dragon Brigade series, entitled the Seventh Sigil. The first book, Shadow Raiders, was an incredible experience to write, and the second book, Storm Riders, is set to be released in July 2013 from Tor.
When I’m not writing, you can find me indulging in my hobby of flyball racing with my dogs, Dixie, a border collie, and two energetic Shelties, Joey the Thug and Clancy the Hooligan. Additionally, I am also the proud owner of a RPG publishing company.
Our latest project involves creating an RPG for the beloved TV series, Firefly. It’s going to be shiny!
Editoral Review
Amber and Iron, written by Margaret Weis, is a thrilling and captivating novel that will sweep readers off their feet. Margaret Weis is a veteran author in the fantasy genre, having co-authored many series, including the popular Dragonlance series.
Her masterful writing and storytelling have made her a beloved figure in the world of literature. The novel Amber and Iron is a part of the Dragonlance universe, and it follows the adventures of the brave heroes of Solamnia as they fight to save their kingdom.
The story is set in a world of magic and mythical creatures, where dragons soar above the skies and dangerous creatures lurk in the shadows. The plot of the novel revolves around the struggle between good and evil, as King Sturm Brightblade tries to unite the warring factions of his kingdom to face a common enemy.
The characters are richly drawn and complex, with each of them exhibiting a unique set of strengths and weaknesses. The story is set in a medieval-like world, and the heroes face incredible challenges that test their courage and loyalty.
The themes of honor, duty, sacrifice, and love are woven into the fabric of the story. Margaret Weis’s writing style is both poetic and vivid, with her descriptions of the scenery and creatures in Solamnia bringing the world to life.
The pacing of the novel is excellent, with intense action scenes being interspersed with moments of introspection and character development. The plot is well-structured, with the twists and turns of the story keeping the reader engaged until the very end.
One of the strengths of Amber and Iron is the character development. The heroes are genuine and relatable, with their struggles and triumphs making them feel like real people.
Each character has a unique backstory that informs their current actions and beliefs, and their growth throughout the story is satisfying to witness. While the novel is a part of the Dragonlance series, it can be enjoyed as a standalone story.
Readers who are familiar with the series will appreciate the continuity of the world-building, while newcomers will not feel lost. One criticism of the novel is that at times, the story can feel predictable.
While this does not detract from the enjoyment of the story, it may be a disappointment for readers who are looking for unexpected twists and turns. Overall, Amber and Iron is a stunning novel that is sure to enchant readers of all ages.
Whether you are a die-hard fantasy fan or a newcomer to the genre, this novel is a must-read. The themes of honor, duty, and sacrifice are universal and relevant, making this novel a great read for anyone looking for a story that will leave them feeling inspired.
I would give this book a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, as it is an excellent example of the fantasy genre and a testament to Margaret Weis’s mastery of storytelling.
