Of Truth and Beasts

In the capable ninth Noble Dead installment (after 2010's Through Stone and Sea), young sage Wynn determinedly pursues proof of her theories of a coming attack by the legendary "Ancient Enemy." Accompanied by telepathic wolf Shade, loyal vampire Chane, and secretive dwarf Ore-Locks, Wynn seeks an ancient dwarven stronghold described at the end of the possibly apocryphal Forgotten History, a chronicle recorded by the long-lived vampires known as the Noble Dead. There Wynn hopes to find one of the Enemy's magical orbs. Trailed by a black wraith and the mysterious elf Chuillyon, Wynn's party uncovers unexpected and potentially deadly secrets. Once again the Hendees deliver a crowd-pleasing mix of intrigue, epic fantasy, and horror. The pace occasionally slows, but there's more than enough mystery and suspense to keep it moving. (Jan.)