Book Review of Magic Lost, Trouble Found
A Fantasy Story of Magic and an Elf with an Attitude by Lisa Shearin
May 21, 2009
Lisa Shearin has woven a fantasy tale about a woman elf named Raine Benares whose profession has a knack for finding trouble. Unfortunately in this case, trouble finds her and often. Magic Lost, Trouble Found (published in 2007, ISBN 9780441015054) is a typical epic fantasy of Tolkien proportions – elves, goblins, magic, evil jewelry – but without the grand scale Tolkien quest.
Raine's story is told strictly from her point of view, adding a definite feminine and, for the lack of a better adjective, chick-lit quality. This may not appeal to readers of the opposite sex, but if they give it a chance, they will have as much fun following Raine's troublesome adventure as chicks.
Brief Synopsis of Magic Lost, Trouble Found
Raine is a seeker, one who uses their magical prowess to help people find things or other people. Her magical abilities are nothing to brag about, but they're enough to help her put food on the table. Since her chosen profession can be dangerous at times, it has molded her into a sassy heroine as well as one who needs little help in a fight.
One night, she observes a friend breaking into a necromancer's home and stealing an amulet and discovers that he's not the only one interested in the large necklace. Goblins spill out of the house after him, prompting Raine to step in and save her friend's skin. But, when she agrees to take the amulet for safekeeping, it's more of the amulet taking her than the other way around.
Not only has the amulet greatly increased her powers, but it's caught the attention of goblins and powerful sorcerers; two factions of which Raine would rather not be caught in the crossfire, but unfortunately, she has little choice in the matter.
Why Everyone Loves Raine Benares
Aside from the fact that it's nice to come across a damsel who is never really in distress, it's refreshing to find a fantasy novel that doesn't include completely clueless characters. No one is being taught about the world of magic, how to use their powers, or constantly given a history lesson.
Shearin instead uses Raine's first-person point-of-view to keep the readers in the loop about her world and magic. Readers learn as Raine lets them, instead of learning as a character learns.
In addition, the story never slows down. Raine's quest takes place in roughly 48 to 72 hours, so there is no downtime of planning, exploring, or traveling. This reason – well, in addition to Raine's rapier wit, which is as delightful as Shearin's motif of the word "trouble" – helps keep the pages turning.
For those who might snub fantasy fiction that is a bit light on the hardcore questing, this is the book that will change their minds.
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