Paragon lost - Rambling Readers

348 pages

English language

Published Feb. 12, 2002 by Eos.

ISBN:: 978-0-380-97896-0

(1 review)

Many legends have emerged from the shadows of Ironhall, yet surely none can surpass the greatness and glory predestined for Sir Beaumont -- possessor of the purest and strongest of hearts, and a mind as quick, keen, and accurate as his sword. But the day he sets out in the service of the elderly Lord Wassail turns to a black one, and young Beau's journey ends in horror and blood ... and disgrace. Banished from the King's Blades, he now faces a grim future as a homeless pariah, a creature to be shunned and despised. But redemption can come from unexpected directions and in unrecognizable guises. Approached in secret by the legendary Durendal, now Grand Master of the Order, the dishonored paragon is offered one last chance to win back his weapon and his place among his brothers in arms. But to do so, Beau must ride alone back through …

Many legends have emerged from the shadows of Ironhall, yet surely none can surpass the greatness and glory predestined for Sir Beaumont -- possessor of the purest and strongest of hearts, and a mind as quick, keen, and accurate as his sword. But the day he sets out in the service of the elderly Lord Wassail turns to a black one, and young Beau's journey ends in horror and blood ... and disgrace. Banished from the King's Blades, he now faces a grim future as a homeless pariah, a creature to be shunned and despised. But redemption can come from unexpected directions and in unrecognizable guises. Approached in secret by the legendary Durendal, now Grand Master of the Order, the dishonored paragon is offered one last chance to win back his weapon and his place among his brothers in arms. But to do so, Beau must ride alone back through the icy gates of Hell ... and do battle with the Devil himself.

4 editions

Sean Randall reviewed Paragon Lost by Dave Duncan

Review of 'Paragon Lost' on 'Goodreads'

5 stars

It's late, so I'm afraid my eloquence (as well as my fingers) are unable to keep up with my thoughts.

I will say that these books have surprised me, for with every volume the world grows in scope and complexity. This book had much more of the blade-as-protector motif for which I originally held such disdain but now enjoy with unbridled enthusiasm. They've been getting better all the way through - this one gripped me so much that I just sat here for 4 and a half hours and zipped through it, cover to cover.

I'll always love The Seventh Sword trilogy: but more books opens vistas of a wider world, allowing for more action, politics and intrigue. With only 2 more books set in this world (that I'm aware of), I wonder just what as yet untapped facet of this spellbinding, heroically monstrous world will be unraveled next?

Subjects

Swordsmen -- Fiction.
King's Blades (Fictitious characters) -- Fiction.