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3.64 AVERAGE
3.64 AVERAGE
Excellent book. The whole anti-hero idea is done exceptionally well with the writing walking a fine line between the archaic and the modern which in this instance worked, managing to deliver the story very well, which I'm not sure would have been the case with every author.
A very short novel, almost a novella in fact, and therefore a quick read but still, there are many more in the series yet.
Very good. Highly recommended.
A very short novel, almost a novella in fact, and therefore a quick read but still, there are many more in the series yet.
Very good. Highly recommended.
A big ol' meh.
I can definitely see how this book would have been groundbreaking in its day, but it's dated, and I kept falling asleep while reading it. Definitely not reading all the other Elric books. Main character full of possibility, but too many Deus ex Machina solutions to problems. Literally, gods would come save him. Multiple times.
I can definitely see how this book would have been groundbreaking in its day, but it's dated, and I kept falling asleep while reading it. Definitely not reading all the other Elric books. Main character full of possibility, but too many Deus ex Machina solutions to problems. Literally, gods would come save him. Multiple times.
The vision of fantasy in here is charming in its quaint simplicity. The story it tells barely stands on its own with how many threads it leaves open for sequels, but that's a sin I've found most fantasy guilty of. A lesson modern fantasy could take to relearn from Elric is its appreciation for the readers time. It manages to do all the worldbuilding and stakes raising of most fantasy in a fraction of the time. It's a true joy to be able to consume all the fun of a fantasy epic in an afternoon.
adventurous
dark
mysterious
reflective
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
adventurous
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
Elric of Melniboné is a classic fantasy novel written by Michael Moorcock that has stood the test of time. The book introduces us to Elric, the last emperor of a once-powerful kingdom called Melniboné. He is a frail and sickly albino with an addiction to a drug that gives him temporary strength and clarity of mind. Despite his physical limitations, Elric is a skilled sorcerer and a master of the sword.
Moorcock's world-building is excellent, and his descriptions of Melniboné, the Young Kingdoms, and the other realms are vivid and imaginative. The magic system is intriguing, and the portrayal of the cosmic balance between Law and Chaos is well done. The story is fast-paced and action-packed, with plenty of thrilling battles and duels.
What sets Elric of Melniboné apart from other fantasy novels of its time is the complexity of its characters. Elric is a flawed and tragic hero, struggling with his addiction and the responsibilities of his role as emperor. The supporting characters are also well-developed, each with their motivations and goals. The relationship between Elric and his cousin and lover, Cymoril, is particularly well done.
The only minor criticism of the book is that some of the plot twists are predictable, and the dialogue can be a bit heavy-handed at times. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise excellent novel.
In conclusion, Elric of Melniboné is a must-read for fans of epic fantasy. It's an engaging and immersive read that will transport you to a world of magic, adventure, and intrigue. Moorcock's writing is superb, and his characters are some of the most memorable in fantasy literature.
Moorcock's world-building is excellent, and his descriptions of Melniboné, the Young Kingdoms, and the other realms are vivid and imaginative. The magic system is intriguing, and the portrayal of the cosmic balance between Law and Chaos is well done. The story is fast-paced and action-packed, with plenty of thrilling battles and duels.
What sets Elric of Melniboné apart from other fantasy novels of its time is the complexity of its characters. Elric is a flawed and tragic hero, struggling with his addiction and the responsibilities of his role as emperor. The supporting characters are also well-developed, each with their motivations and goals. The relationship between Elric and his cousin and lover, Cymoril, is particularly well done.
The only minor criticism of the book is that some of the plot twists are predictable, and the dialogue can be a bit heavy-handed at times. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise excellent novel.
In conclusion, Elric of Melniboné is a must-read for fans of epic fantasy. It's an engaging and immersive read that will transport you to a world of magic, adventure, and intrigue. Moorcock's writing is superb, and his characters are some of the most memorable in fantasy literature.
adventurous
dark
mysterious
medium-paced