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Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
L.R. Merriman’s The Truth Dancer centers on Elenden deArthis, the isolated third son of a Northern noble family whose ability to perform truth dancing draws attention from hidden spiritual groups, Imperial authorities, and ancient enemies connected to the old elemental schools. After surviving an assassination attempt during a public performance, Elenden leaves home to study within a chain of monasteries devoted to Earth, Water, Air, Spirit, and the forgotten teachings known as the True. His path changes further after a mountain storm leads him into contact with Aurvandiel, an ancient dragon whose bond alters both Elenden’s body and his connection to spiritual power. While Imperial Inquisitor Merauve questions him inside Fortress Kestrel, Elenden recounts the events shaping his life, including political manipulation surrounding the Empire’s virtue system, hidden corruption inside organizations claiming moral authority, and the widening conflict between the True and forces called the Dark.
L.R. Merriman’s The Truth Dancer: Spirit of Truth is reminiscent of older fantasy literature, and the questions asked inside Fortress Kestrel are as integral as the combat training on the frozen monastery grounds. Merauve is a really fascinating character, and the author gives him the best arc of the bunch as he juggles rigid Imperial doctrine and humane judgment. Elenden also benefits from the author's patience and restraint in slowly unfurling his tale. I love Aerellyn, a scout traveling among the nomadic Kervani people. The book’s spiritual institutions possess a really textured feel that is easy to picture, from Waterfall Monastery stretching across bridges suspended above rushing water, to Mountain Monastery and its rise beside blizzard-covered cliffs. Readers who adore philosophical fantasy that leans into a great hero journey, forbidden faith, and ancient myths will find this book worth every moment spent in the pages. Very highly recommended.
