The Demon Apostle

This extension (after The Demon Spirit) of the adventures of ranger Elbryan and his lover, Pony, may be Salvatore's strongest fantasy to date. Aided by his friends, the elf Juraviel and the sly centaur Bradwarden, Elbryan fights valiantly for the freedom of the northern lands of Honce-the-Bear--freedom from the schemes of the Abellican Church, the evil Dwarves and the royal authority of King Danube Brock Ursal. Meanwhile, Pony, who is carrying Elbryan's child, heads back south to Palmaris, which has come under the authority of the sinister sorcerer Bishop Marcalo De'Unnero. Pony is determined to avenge the death of her adoptive parents--even if doing so means risking her life, and her child's. Salvatore's potent mixture of detailed historical context, well-rounded characters (including secondary figures torn by conflicted loyalties to their church and state), brisk pacing and exciting battle scenes make for a consuming read. Author tour. (Mar.)