Whisperings of Magic

Dragonfire #2

by Karleen Bradford

Dahl, rightful ruler of Taun, has brought peace and prosperity to his world, a world that had been doomed for so long to the shadow of The Usurper. Now Catryn, Seer of Taun, has suddenly appeared with news that Dahl prayed he would never have to “The evil has returned.” Whisperings of Magic is the gripping sequel to Dragonfire , a thrilling fantasy of a young boy who saved his kingdom and restored his birthright, at the same time conquering the most dangerous force of all — his own fear. Dragonfire was Karleen Bradford’s most acclaimed novel ever, with Maclean’s enthusing, “Dahl’s final battle with The Usurper is one of the most thrilling encounters with the shadow in children’s literature. . . . an unforgettable experience of initiation.” In a starred review, Quill & Quire called it “an absorbing tale about a complex and fascinating period.” Now, in Whisperings of Magic , the evil appears poised to strike again, and this time Catryn knows that she must ally her formidable power with Dahl’s. Only together can they save Taun. Like Dragonfire , Whisperings of Magic is a multi-layered novel, an action-packed epic fantasy, a story of good vs. evil and a powerful look at the redemptive power of friendship.

Genres: Fantasy, Canada

Mass Market Paperback

First published March 22, 2001

Reviews

[Katy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Three years have passed since Dahl defeated the Usurper and retook Taun. Catryn has been with the Elders, learning of her magic and gaining strength. Unfortunately, something else has been gaining strength, too – something evil, something powerful in the north. And it means to enslave everyone on Taun and destroy Dahl.

Another very entertaining story, this one further explores the nature of good and evil, and how those natures are intertwined. There were two things that bothered me about this story – one, Magnus, the horse that was formerly the Usurper’s and is now Dahl’s, mysteriously and inexplicably changed from a roan stallion to a black stallion. Two, Catryn’s personality has changed, and definitely for the worse. She has become incredibly arrogant and proud, constantly thinking to herself how powerful she is and that people should be awed and obedient to her – even Dahl. She settled down a bit by the end of the book, but her attitude caused me to dislike her intensely during this book. I hope that she will discover some humility and quit lording her power over others in the final book of the series, “Dragonmaster.” Again, recommended for readers of all ages – while written for young readers – who enjoy a good fantasy story.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of the books I remember best from childhood. I absolutely adored this book back in elementary school. Along with the masterworks of Tolkien, Whisperings of Magic helped define good fantasy for me and made me fall in love with the genre.