A Knot of Trolls

North-lands spellcasters who reach too boldly for power transform into trolls - grotesque villains wielding a potent magic and destined for madness.

Spanning the North-lands history, from ancient times to the pastoral present, "A Knot of Trolls" features seven such evildoers. Seven trolls and the ordinary youths called by chance or by destiny to take a stand.

"The Troll's Belt" stars motherless Brys Arnsson, challenged as much by his own deceit as by his troll foe. "Crossing the Naiad" presents shepherd girl Kimmer with a dangerous tragedy from the distant past.

"Skies of Navarys" follows two friends with a vehement difference, their contested decision to decide the fate of thousands. In "Resonant Bronze" Paitra and his brother struggle to claim appropriate guilt - neither too much nor too little - and thereby defeat a troll warlord.

"Rainbow's Lodestone" offers the spirit of the rainbow a chance to learn that the smallest places birth freedom. "Star-drake" stalks a pitiless troll-herald to defeat - or is it victory? - utterly unforeseen.

And in "Perilous Chance" young Clary needs a miracle. But her miracle - when it comes - sports razor-sharp talons, world-shaking power, and a troll-witch to guard its sleep.

Seven tales of magic balance death and destruction against destiny and hope.