The Scythian Stone comes in a pdf format so you'll need the adobe reader to read it. It's a simple tale of a farm boy named Daynin who discovers a rune covered stone in his field. Not realizing it may be the magical Scythian Stone of legend, he shows it to his grandfather who decides to sell it.

The headstone shaped Scythian Stone leads Daynin on his first real adventure away from home. He connects with several colorful characters including a cursed former apprentice of the great Merlin, a kinsman and a beautiful slave-prostitute. Together they follow the stone's destiny.

However, any adventure isn't without its pitfalls. Daynin and Sabrintha have a run in with her owner, ending in the man's death so they become hunted criminals. During a fight at a roadblock, an evil magician, who calls himself The Seed, takes the opportunity to make off with their wagon containing the stone. Fortunately for our heroes, the magical tornado sweeps them up too.

Inside The Seeds' castle they encounter numerous horrors, including undead guardsmen and

rat-dog creatures, as they struggle to prevent the evil one from taking the stone's magic for himself. One of their number won't return and the true nature of the Scythian Stone is revealed.

The Scythian Stone is a light, easy read. If it weren't for a few obscenities and a smattering of sex, I'd recommend it for young adults. Don't expect a detailed world like might be found within the pages of Weis and Hickman or a complicated plot line such as Eddings might have. But if you're looking for a quick trip into fantasy land and don't mind reading on screen, you might consider The Scythian Stone.

-- reviewed by Kim Bundy, May, 2001

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