More than a quarter of a century after "The Sword of Shannara
carved out its place in the pantheon of great epic fantasy, the
magic of Terry Brooks''s "New York Times bestselling saga burns as
brightly as ever. Three complete series have chronicled the
ever-unfolding history of Shannara. But more stories are still to
be told--and new adventures have yet to be undertaken. Book One of
High Druid of Shannara invites both the faithful longtime reader
and the curious newcomer to take the first step on the next
extraordinary quest.
Twenty years have passed since Grianne Ohmsford denounced her
former life as the dreaded Ilse Witch--saved by the love of her
brother, the magic of the Sword of Shannara, and the destruction of
her evil mentor, the Morgawr. Now, fulfilling the destiny predicted
for her, she has established the Third Druid Council, and dedicated
herself to its goals of peace, harmony among the races, and defense
of the Four Lands. But the political intrigue, secret treachery,
and sinister deeds that have haunted Druid history for generations
continue to thrive. And despite her devotion to the greater good as
Ard Rhys--the High Druid of Paranor, Grianne still has bitter
enemies.
Among the highest ranks of the Council she leads lurk those who
cannot forget her reign of terror as the Ilse Witch, who covet her
seat of power, and who will stop at nothing to see her deposed . .
. or destroyed. Even Grianne''s few allies--chief among them her
trusted servant Tagwen--know of the plots against her. But they
could never anticipate the sudden, ominous disappearance of the Ard
Rhys, in the dead of night and without a trace. Now, barely a step
ahead of the dark forces bent on stopping him, Tagwen joins
Grianne''s brave young nephew, Pen Ohmsford, and the wise, powerful
elf Ahren Elessedil on a desperate and dangerous mission of search
and rescue--to deliver the High Druid of Shannara from an
unspeakable fate.
Expect no end of wonders, no shortage of adventure, exhilaration,
suspense, and enchantment, as Terry Brooks demonstrates, once
again, that there is no end to his magic of invention and mastery
of storytelling.
"From the Hardcover edition.