Thraxas and the Elvish Isles by Martin Scott

This is the 4th book of the series for the round former battle mage Thraxas and his fierce friend Makri. I reviewed the first one here and then read #2 and #3. Part 4 felt like the best and most balanced of all. It is the best mystery and the one with the least battles. Still zero drama.

Thraxas is invited to an Elven island to help with a murder case. Elves have no crime and no detectives. Murder on their island is a big thing. Asking questions, on the other hand, is not appreciated. On top of it, it looks like people are under some kind of spell, the murderess is inadequate, and the high elves do not drink beer.

From a character development point of view, have a chance to learn about Makri’s Orkish kendoka origins. She will wield some wooden swords this time.

5/5. The book on Goodreads.

Difficult name

Something makes my name difficult to say and hear. English speakers tend to confuse it with a random Russian last name, the Greek Vasilij, or Vaseline. Bulgarians improvise around it, surprised when they hear it.

On the photo – Vasilen, actually not a bad interpretation because it’s close to a real name. 4/7

Alabin

At the heart of Sofia. To the left is a place called Koloni (columns), and ahead is Garibaldi. The clock tower of the long gone KTB bank would still ding enthusiastically. You have a choice of fast food, confectioneries and book shops. It’s ordinary.

Swan

Reusing old tires for gardening purposes is very common in Sofia, especially for protecting plants and small trees. The results are of varying quality. Here’s a tire swan.