Scent of Magic

ISBN: 0-380-97687-0 Order from: Amazon.com

A mediocre fantasy novel with monochromatic moral distinctions, well-telegraphed romance, and unusual use of the sense of smell.

Reviewed by David on May 09, 1999

Genre: Fantasy (Evil Sorcerer, Sword and Sorcery)

Synopsis: The orphan girl Willadene has spent much of her life toiling for the cruel and slovenly cousin after her parents died in the plague. However, the growing girl harbors a rare gift: instead of Second Sight she posseses the "Second Smell": the extraordinary ability to distinguish not only ordinary smells but those of good and evil.

In the meantime, the Duke sits uneasily on his throne, knowing that many in the court are not happy with his rule. However, there are more than mortal conspiracies threatening the Duke and his sheltered daughter, Willadene and her new herbalist teacher.

Invited by human ambition, the elusive stench of centuries-old evil is rising to ensnare the noble and the humble alike.

Full Review: This novel could have easily been set in Norton's Witch World universe. The tone and even some of the terminology are the same. Regrettably, while having little of the freshness of the best Witch World novels, this book shares all of their disadvantages. In particular, the fuzzy ritual, the diamond-sharp distinction between good and bad, the flat and easily distinguished adversaries (here they even smell bad!).

The modest romantic progression is predictable, and adds little to the characterization. There are a few well-designed elements: the Duke, weak, peevish, and yet conscious of his flaws and determined to do his best, is quite believable. The use of the smell as the key to herbalism and plant magic is rather unusual. However, on balance, this novel remains a disappointment, offering little in terms of excitement, originality or emotional impact.

Overall: 5; Plot: 5; Characters: 4; Style: 4.5; World-building: 5; Originality: 4.5;

ISBN: 0-380-97687-0 Order from: Amazon.com