The Gypsy Morph

Starred review from August 15, 2008
Civilization has collapsed, cities lie in ruins, and two Knights of the Word, Logan Tom and Angel Perez, continue their valiant battles against the demons and once-men to save the remnants of humanity and the newly discovered Elves, who have long hidden themselves from the world. Joining with Angel and Logan are Kirisin, an elf entrusted with the Elfstones that can protect his people and help transport them to a safe place, and Hawk, the boy born of wild magic and destined to lead human and elven survivors to a new world. In his dramatic and powerful conclusion to the trilogy (following "Armegeddon's Children" and "The Elves of Cintra") describing the birth of the world known as Shannara, Brooks provides both a stirring coda to his the "Word" and the "Void" series and a stepping-off point for more explorations into the early history of one of fantasy's most enduring worlds. Strong storytelling and unforgettable characters make this a priority purchase for most libraries.

Copyright 2008 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

June 1, 2008
The conclusion of Brooks Genesis of Shannara trilogy is as gripping as Armageddons Children (2006) and The Elves of Cintra (2007). Demons and once-men relentlessly roam the ravaged U.S., wreaking havoc. The only survivors of the horrors--the Elves of Cintra; the children led by the boy Hawk, who is the Gypsy Morph of the title, formed of wild magic; and their protectors, Knights of the Word Logan Tom and Angel Perez--set out from the shores of Oregons Columbia River in search of the Promised Land, where the King of the Silver River awaits them. The young elf Kirisin has recovered the long-lost Elfstones and the Loden, which are as necessary in the battle as are Hawks growing powers and the magic of the knights. Their way is long and fraught with many dangers as Demonkind and its minions harry them, picking off children to kill. At times, events separate major characters, making them even more vulnerable. As usual, Brooks provides a palpable sense of danger and dread, and his characters are as complex as ever. And, once again, the threads found in the other books are meticulously woven together, making this a fitting finale to a dynamic saga.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2008, American Library Association.)