EYES OF THE BLIND

A sword-and-sorcery series opener focuses on a teenager who embarks on a remarkable quest.

Tormjere is 14 years old when his younger brother, Eljorn, joins the Toushin monks and takes up a monastic life. But though he is glad his brother found his path, Tormjere is lonely and his own road seems meandering. Tormjere spends his time in the woods with Blackwolf, his faithful dog, remembering the adventures he and Eljorn dreamed of having when they were boys. But Tormjere lives in the small town of Kenzing, so tiny nothing would ever happen there. Still, there are rumors of war; the king comes to Kenzing and just as quickly leaves; and Tormjere encounters Rangers in the woods. These occurrences are strange, but Tormjere has no time to contemplate these events as he is swept up into a trading mission to Fallhaven when his uncle comes to town. On the road, Tormjere and his uncle are ambushed by bandits and Blackwolf receives an arrow through the leg and is not expected to survive. When they reach Fallhaven, Tormjere takes Blackwolf to be healed at the church of Amalthee—worshippers of the Goddess of Knowledge. The brothers of Amalthee do not want monetary payment: Father Gelid is blind and needs a guide to help him to the city of Kirchmont. Tormjere agrees and Blackwolf is healed. But after Tormjere delivers Father Gelid to Kirchmont, he learns that a sacred book has been stolen: an invisible volume that can only be seen and read by the blind. Tormjere joins the priest and some wizards on a quest to find the important work. Godwin creates an intriguing epic fantasy world, often more captivating because of the small physical details rather than the striking history or battles that are described. In this coming-of-age saga, Tormjere exists in a real world and struggles with real objects: “His back hurt from the lopsided weight of his sword.” He is a likable character who shines brightly because of his curiosity. He asks questions; he’s absorbed in learning. Still, this first volume of a trilogy doesn’t seem particularly interested in subverting or challenging established fantasy tropes. The story features humans, elves, dwarves, halflings, and goblins in a world run by men, offering a predominantly male cast. The author doesn’t really expand or question the underpinnings of his vivid world.

A strong epic fantasy with an engaging young protagonist.