Through the Wildwood  (The Legend of Vance Malic Book 1) By M. R. Mathias

A half-Zythian bard named Vanx is in chains for bedding the Duchess of Highlake. The Duke wants him dead, but his wife secretly sent their daughter to buy his freedom from the slave markets. This is bad news, for bad things can happen to an ill guarded caravan in the mountains. When the duke's mercenaries attack to kill the adulterous prisoner all hell breaks loose. Now, the only way Vanx and the Princess of Highlake can escape the duke and his men is if they can somehow make it through the Wildwood, a place that no one has ever returned from before.....
 
This is how the author describes his book. I will say that this does not do justice to the wild ride this group of people go through, because many do not come out of the Wildwood! This story is a lot of fun and there are so many elements expertly woven together; we have a hero who loves to serenade others and drink a few ales, there is a princess in disguise, a queen that cuckolds her husband with the bard, a devious commander setting up the murder of the bard and others. Giant cats and dogs provide transportation, wizards that are not always awake, ogres, trolls and walking trees! Something for everyone!
 
If you love fantasy, you have several hours of pleasure waiting for you in this book. I rate this book 4.7 stars of 5. Mr. Mathias has constructed a comfortable and believable world. The only drawback is the head hopping, we spend a little too much time in the heads of different characters. More dialog and action would push a great story to the top!
 
The book is available on Amazon: Through the Wildwood (The Legend of Vance Malic Book 1)
 
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​​Copyright © 2015 Mark L Schultz except for the author's introduction