The Crystal Shard

by R.A. Salvatore
The Crystal Shard cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Fantasy
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Technical
  • ID: 8374
  • Added: 2025-12-21
  • Updated: 2025-12-21
  • ISBN: 9780786954049
  • Publisher: Wizards of the Coast
  • Published: 2009-06-23
  • Reviews: 3

In the windswept Ten-Towns of Icewind Dale, Drizzt Do’Urden finds himself entangled in a brewing war with the barbarian tribes of the north. Amidst the chaos, he befriends a young barbarian named Wulfgar, who becomes a ward of Bruenor, a seasoned dwarf leader. Together, they must confront the corrupt wizard who wields the sinister power of the Crystal Shard. /n/n The Crystal Shard is the first book in the Icewind Dale Trilogy and the fourth in the Legend of Drizzt series, offering a blend of epic fantasy and adventure set against the backdrop of a harsh, unforgiving landscape.

Reviews
Fantasy Literature · 2025-12-21
great 4.50

The book is praised for its ambitious storytelling and memorable characters. It's noted for its enduring appeal and impact on the fantasy genre.

This review highlights the ambitious nature of the novel, appreciating its intricate world-building and character development. The reviewer fondly recalls their first encounter with the book, emphasizing its lasting influence. They also note that while some elements may feel dated, the core story remains compelling and engaging. The book's ability to captivate readers over the years is a testament to its quality and the skill of the author.

Quick quotes

    Great review! I dearly loved The Crystal Shard when I first read it in high school, many many years ago.

    It was the first R. A. Salvatore I ever read

    The Crystal Shard is a fantasy novel at its core, which comes with a heavy focus on world building and plot, both of which are detailed, logical, easy to follow, and well-written.

Stories of You and I · 2024-02-17
great 4.50

The book is commended for its detailed world-building and logical plot development. The reviewer finds the story engaging and well-crafted.

This review highlights the book's strong world-building and logical plot development, which the reviewer finds particularly impressive. The story is described as engaging and well-crafted, with a focus on creating a believable and immersive world. The reviewer appreciates the attention to detail and the way the plot unfolds, making it a satisfying read. While there are some minor criticisms, the overall impression is positive, with a strong emphasis on the book's ability to captivate and entertain.

Quick quotes

    The Crystal Shard is a fantasy novel at its core, which comes with a heavy focus on world building and plot, both of which are detailed, logical, easy to follow, and well-written.

    The Crystal Shard is everything I still love about classic fantasy, heroic battles, flawed but noble characters, and a world that feels alive with danger and adventure.

    The Crystal Shard is a fantasy novel at its core, which comes with a heavy focus on world building and plot, both of which are detailed, logical, easy to follow, and well-written.

Jim Wilbourne · Jim Wilbourne · 2019-11-10
good 4.00

The action scenes are particularly praised for their cinematic quality and narrative excellence. The reviewer enjoys the book's pacing and character dynamics.

Jim Wilbourne's review focuses on the action-packed sequences, which he describes as cinematic and expertly crafted. He appreciates the pacing and the way the characters interact, making the story engaging and enjoyable. While he acknowledges some minor flaws, the overall experience is positive, with a strong emphasis on the book's ability to entertain and immerse the reader in its world.

Quick quotes

    What I enjoyed most from this story were the action scenes.

    Cinematic in their conception and crafted with the perfect amount of narrative.

    The Crystal Shard is a fantasy novel at its core, which comes with a heavy focus on world building and plot, both of which are detailed, logical, easy to follow, and well-written.

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