Hilde is a young woman trying to make her way in the world but there is something about her that makes people spurn her. After meeting an old woman and a vicious attack, Hilde sets out to find some answers. Soon after, Hilde experiences another attack during which something strange happens. After being mysteriously transported to another place Hilde discovers the stranger she suspects helped her escape her latest attack.

Ilfayne is not your typical wizard. Yes, he defeated a great evil in a long ago battle but that's where the similarities end. This wizard has only one hand, prefers to be drunk and has a foul mouth. He also took an oath and is not allowed to kill or something bad happens to him. So meeting up with Hilde puts him in a very awkward situation. Not only has he found a woman who can tolerate him but it seems the old evil is back and it's controlling the different leaders, making them do things out of character. Now Ilfayne is trying to help Hilde find where she belongs and who the big evil is.

Ilfayne's Bane is the type of story that will keep you on the edge of seat. Not all things are what they seem to be. I think the ending will surprise readers. I certainly never saw it coming.

If you're looking for a fantasy world containing what I would call a bunch of misfit characters who meld together quite nicely with a little mystery and a little romance then this book is for you. I would also advise keeping a box of Kleenex handy.

Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Very sensual

Reviewer: Diane Mason
February 9, 2009