Finished The Innkeeper's Song and adored it. The characters that this man dreams up and makes real are miles above most fiction out there, but oddly, I don't think that's the top trait that draws me to his books. I think it's the narration, the poetic imagery in every description and every line of dialogue. It's not usually what I look for, but it's hard to ignore when it's there. You almost have to step away and have a cup of tea and ruminate for a while after a chapter or two of Peter S. Beagle's observations.
Just to pitch you the book with something concrete about its story, though: three women come to an inn. Lal is short and badass and is embarrassed when she finds out how she walks. Nyateneri is middle-aged and has a history with a fox and a secret you will never guess until you get there. Lukassa is not Lukassa. The innkeeper is majorly ticked off.
See? Just like a fantasy novel, except it's really really good.
Got my Spike issue today. Expect a review when I'm done with my pies, unless I get tired and go to sleep first, in which case expect it in a couple days.
good