As a lifelong gamer, I love reading the novels set in the Forgotten Realms. I devoured R.A. Salvatore's books, loving above all others the tales of Drizzt Do'urden and his life both before and after his time with his Companions of the Hall. The Companions was my re-entry back into this new world, 100 years after the deaths of some of my favorite characters, the time after the Spellplague. I have my favorite Realms writers and I had previously stuck to only reading their books; however it had been quite some time since I had read any at all.
Firstly I have to say that it was a joy to be reunited with Regis, Cattie-Brie, and Bruenor. Their mission to reunite after 21 years, having been given the choice of being reborn a century after their deaths to help Drizzt- although with what we have no clue. Only that Mielikki bade them too, and gave them the hope that they would still be alive the second time around and so would be there to help their friend in his time of need.
However, and maybe this is because I am not as familiar with Drizzt's last couple of adventures, I was confused as to what that need was. I felt that the reborn Companion's journeys were too drawn-out. I had hoped for a reunion with Drizzt at the end, a great battle, or really any explanation of why this goddess would bring them back from their afterlives. I didn't get any of that. I understand that The Companions was only the first book in the Sundering series, but as I understand it these are all stand-alone books. Perhaps in the later ones I will gain the understanding I lack at the moment. I hope so.
As always, though, it is a pleasure being back in the Realms. And as an active gamer I find myself thinking of the levels of each the spells that are used, the magic items that are mentioned, the saving throws the characters must have rolled. Hearing tale of the most infamous NPCs in the game makes me feel like I am home. So regardless of any slight shortcomings, The Companions is yet another win in R.A. Salvatore's prodigious column.
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