With my listen-through of The Wheel of Time complete, something had to fill the void. Enter the Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn trilogy by Tad Williams. Like the Wheel, I first read this series decades ago. Since Williams is currently finishing up a sequel trilogy, what better time to revisit Osten Ard?

Williams’ work has been called ‘careful fantasy.’ I like that description. This book has been criticized for starting slow, but I disagree. The slow start is necessary—the details matter. After listening through The Dragonbone Chair, I have a connection with Simon ‘Mooncalf.’ I understand what makes him tick. Williams is adept at adding those painfully awkward little details that bring characters to life.

Although the novel begins slowly, it picks up speed and doesn’t slow down. I’ve discovered another suitable running companion!

Williams, Tad. The Dragonbone Chair. DAW, 1989. Memory, Sorrow, and Thorn 1.