A Fistful of Elven Gold

This immersive standalone fantasy mystery from Stewart (The Greater Good) features a sarcastic, offbeat main character and a meticulously constructed fantasy world. Elf King Stargleam of the Sylvan Marches hires gnome Drago Appleroot to kill Gorash Grover, the leader of a rebel group of goblins who are thought responsible for the disappearance and alleged assassination of Queen Ariella. When Drago realizes the extent of the elves’ bias against other races, he begins to wonder whether Gorash Grover’s story is more complex than he’s been led to believe. Stewart develops his intricate plot with stimulating efficiency while building the tapestry of his setting. Drago is a confident and skilled protagonist, and his complexity of character encourages the reader to both celebrate his successes and mourn his setbacks. The resolution comes a bit too quickly, but otherwise it’s a very enjoyable adventure. (Apr.)