From Publishers Weekly
In this second volume of the Dragonbards Trilogy, Tebriel must use his skills to fight the evil that is conquering his world. Dacia is the only country thathas not succumbed to the mind enslavement perpetrated by the "unliving." They are, however, using Dacia as their headquarters. Why hasn't Dacia fallen? Tebriel must use his wits and courage, as well as his magic, to find the answer, which lies in the ivory lyre. This well-crafted fantasy has a depth and scope reminiscent of Tolkien. Like Bilbo, Tebriel has a small but important part to play in a larger war. The first chapter recaps the important events in Nightpool, the earlier book, so that this volume stands on its own. Ages 12-up.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
Grade 6-9 Murphy continues the story of the dragonbards' struggle against the dark forces invading the world of Tirror, which she began in Nightpool (Harper, 1985). Prince Tebriel enters the Kingdom of Dacia disguised as a merchant, offering as his wares the four singing dragons who have transformed themselves into war-horses. His purpose is to contact the Resistance army and to search for other bards, including his lost sister, Camery. In this second volume of the trilogy, the plot is more straightforward and focused. The appearance of more human characters adds interest (those in Nightpool were mainly talking animals). In fact, the introduction of some strong female characters threatens to steal attention from Tebriel, the hero of the story. The shadowy personalities of the dark invaders are slightly more developed here. The conventions Murphy uses in creating her fantasy world are not new, but her plot commands attention; the device of turning the dragons into horses is particularly effective. Although clearly part of a series, the story can stand on its own. Ruth S. Vose, San Francisco Public Library
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.
