Dissolution by Richard Lee Byers kicks off RA Salvatore's War of the Spider Queen series. Set in the Forgotten Realms universe, this series focuses entirely on the infamous drow, giving greater insight into these enigmatic people. Byers successfully brings to life a world full of political strife, religious conflict, and magical warfare.

The story follows the adventures Pharaun, a disgraced wizard or Sorcere. Gromph Baenre, current Archmage of Sorcere, sends Pharaun with a group headed to Ched Nasad to find out why trade and tribute have ceased, and if the silence of Lolth extends that far. Other members include Quenthal Baenre, Ryld, and Jeggred

Byers' writing style is engaging and descriptive, allowing the reader to easily visualize the world of Menzoberanzan. The characters are well-developed, with intricate backstories that add depth and complexity to the story. The author also seamlessly weaves in cultural and religious practices, adding an extra layer of richness to the world of the drow.

One of the strengths of this book is its pacing. Byers masterfully builds tension throughout the story, making it difficult to put the book down. The action scenes are gripping and well-choreographed, making them easy to follow and visualize.

Overall, Dissolution is an excellent read for anyone who enjoys fantasy novels with a touch of mystery and suspense. Highly recommended, especially if you love the drow!

***Purchased and read for my own enjoyment. ( )

Menzoberranzan es la ciudad del esplendor y la crueldad, patria de mortíferos guerreros y nigromantes diabólicos, es la Antípoda Oscura, emporio principal de la siniestra raza de los elfos oscuros. Pero en su corazón late un misterio, un terrible secreto que amenaza con destruirla. Cuando la diosa Lloth corta de raíz el poder que la sostiene, sus numerosos enemigos la acosan desde todas partes. Y, ¿qué peor enemigo para un drow que otro drow?

I enjoyed this first part of a new series, particularly the little worldbuilding details of Menzoberranzan.

I am also of course a sucker for an asshole wizard, so Pharaun is absolutely great. ( )

I read the entire "War of the Spider Queen" series back to back, so it's hard to rate each book separately. Set in the familiar forgotten realms universe, the characters encounter perils that get more dangerous as the series progresses. Filled with the distrust and backstabbing that has come to be expected with drow in this world, there are still occasional moments of tenderness and soul searching, making this a very worthwhile read. ( )

This series is about the drow, dark elves and this is my introduction to them. The ones living beneath the earth. They worship some spider goddess, who is apparently doing something of her own and leaving them to fend for themselves. Chronicles what is happening as the ruling caste loses their power. The drow appear to be the worst kind of creature I could imagine. Elves, but with no love, no honor, nothing good. Pure ambition, even to the hurt of their own houses. I only have the first 3 books and the libraries don't have the rest, so I don't know if I'll be finishing this series or not. ( )