Fans' Fantasy: Book 2 Of 'Griffin' Trilogy

Sunday News

Fledgling book publisher, Avari Press, last week released a new fantasy novel to critical acclaim.

Publishers Weekly called "Griffin's Shadow," part two of Leslie Ann Moore's "coming-of-mage saga," "a satisfying sequel" to the author's debut novel. Its predecessor, "Griffin's Daughter," was published by Avari in 2007.

"Moore's narrative drive and suspenseful plot twists will leave readers eager for the conclusion to this intricate and appealing tale," the PW reviewer said. This new release is part of a trilogy Avari plans to publish.

Book 1 introduced Jelena, a young woman of elven-human blood, living as an outcast among bigoted human relatives. When she discovers a strange power in herself related to her elven nature, she travels to elven lands to learn more about the magic within herself. There she finds happiness with elven husband Ashinji, but the Nameless One seeks to sap her new-found magic.

In Book 2, humans prepare for war against the elves, led by Jelena's recently revealed elf-king father. Even within Jelena's new family there is no peace while Ashinji and his brother are at odds. She finds herself pregnant and alone when her husband is sent into slavery. Meanwhile, the Nameless One's threats against Jelena's magical life force grow stronger, aided by a sorceress. nLast May, Avari Press won the Benjamin Franklin Award from PMA, the 4,000-member Independent Book Publishers Association, for the best new fiction book of 2007, "Griffin's Daughter."

At the time, Anthony N. Verrecchia, president and publisher of Avari Press, said, "This award is a testament to the quality of Leslie's writing. We believe she has a long and successful writing career ahead of her, and we are pleased to have had the opportunity to publish her first novel."

Moore, of Los Angeles, is a practicing veterinarian. "Griffin's Daughter" was inspired by her mentor, fantasy author Terry Brooks.

"Griffin's Shadow," a 356-page trade paperback, is listed at $14.95. For more information, go to www.avaripress.com. A portion of the book's proceeds will be donated to Operation USA, which fights the effects of disaster, disease and poverty around the world.

----

More book news