The Fantasy Books

The Fionavar Tapestry Trilogy

by Kay, Guy Gavriel

Description

Gavriel Kay's Fionavar is an ode to J.R.R. Tolkien, building on his life as an editorial assistant to his son, Christopher. Kay was instrumental in the publication of the legend's posthumous works, and the echoes of those themes shine through in this series. It carries many of the elements of classic heroic fantasy, complete with a rising evil and an unlikely hero. Kay's execution, though, is entirely different. The series follows five students from the university of Toronto as they find themselves in a magic world. While Tolkien blends many mythologies, this setting has a Celtic style that makes it feel incredibly unique. Kay keeps the lengthy, lyrical prose, but surpasses many in his characters and plot. It's not a journey to Mordor - it's complex, winding, linked and intricate. That describes his characters too, to an extent. The series has a huge number of them, yet they manage to promote real depth and emotion. The five each have their own flaws which they must overcome, and that makes for a great story of power, forgiveness and free will. Read if you like: Tolkien, high fantasy, heroic fantasy.

About the Author

Kay, Guy Gavriel

Guy Gavriel Kay is a Canadian author known for his works of historical and contemporary fantasy. His novels often draw upon historical events and settings, but incorporate elements of the fantastical and supernatural.Kay's best-known works include "The Fionavar Tapestry" trilogy, "Tigana," and "The Sarantine Mosaic" duology. "The Fionavar Tapestry" is a portal fantasy series that follows five university students who are transported to a magical world to fulfill a prophecy, while "Tigana" is a standalone novel set in a fictional world inspired by Renaissance Italy. "The Sarantine Mosaic" is a historical fantasy duology set in a fictionalized version of the Byzantine Empire.Kay is known for his lyrical prose and the depth of his characters, as well as his ability to create immersive, believable worlds that blend historical accuracy with fantastical elements. He has won several awards throughout his career, including the World Fantasy Award, and his work has been translated into multiple languages.In addition to his novels, Kay has also worked as a writer for radio and television, as well as a literary editor and book reviewer. His contributions to the world of fantasy and speculative fiction have made him a beloved and influential figure in the genre.

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Books in The Fionavar Tapestry Series

(3 books)

Other Books by Kay, Guy Gavriel

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