Child of a Mad God: A Tale of the Coven

Child of a Mad God is the first in a new series by RA Salvatore, the writer who introduced us to the drow ranger Drizzt Do’Urden. Set in the world of Corona, a world made familiar in the Demon Wars Saga, this book explores lands far from Honce-the-Bear, in a time after said wars. This story spans a decade or more and follows several main players–Aeolyn, Seonagh, Talmadge, and Tay Aillig–whose lives are shown in a series of “snapshots.”

Besides these interchanging viewpoints, there are some introspective essays from the viewpoint Aydrian Wyndon, much like Drizzt’s in the Legend of Drizzt series. This is the only time we hear from Aydrian in this book. I imagine he becomes important in later books, and the essays give valuable information.

The perspective does shift between characters. At no point did I have trouble following the shifts, but if you dislike that style, be forewarned. While Corona was never my favorite (that would be Faerûn, and Drizzt’s adventures), I do enjoy the magic system of this world, and it was neat to see another group that had learned to use the magic of the stones. The anthropologist in me enjoyed learning about the cultures of the Usgar, and the lake tribes. The head-shaping practiced by the lake tribes was a fascinating facet. Oh, yes, and I loved that there are snow leopards!

I was on the fence about Aeolyn. I liked her spirit, and she was rebelling against a harsh culture, which is how cultures change and evolve. I just think she could have been a little savvier about it, knowing the consequences of acting out against the norms. I look forward to seeing how she grows over the next books and changes her tribe.

I liked Tay Aillig. I know I probably shouldn’t, but I couldn’t really see him as a villain when he acted as his culture dictated. He’s another potential culture-changer, albeit likely opposite of how Aeolyn would change it. I’d really like to think he could change himself and become an ally of Aeolyn. Not bloody likely, I know, but one can hope.

Talmadge I liked, too, and I hope we see again. He’s a sweet man, with a good heart. It’s through him that we really get to explore the lake tribes, and I’d love to see more of them in general. He’s been through so much, and I hope he finds the lasting happiness he deserves.

Recommended if you’re a fan of Salvatore’s works in general or are a fan of fantasy with interesting magical systems.