Elminster: Making of a Mage

by Ed Greenwood
Elminster: Making of a Mage cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Fantasy
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Technical
  • ID: 8402
  • Added: 2025-12-21
  • Updated: 2025-12-21
  • ISBN: 9780786959617
  • Publisher: Wizards of the Coast
  • Published: 2011-07-12
  • Reviews: 3

Elminster: Making of a Mage delves into the early life of the legendary Elminster, set in a time when the Heartlands are ruled by barbarians and dragons. The story begins with Elminster as a simple shepherd boy, dreaming of greater adventures. His life takes a dramatic turn when a dragon-riding magelord disrupts his peaceful existence, thrusting him into a world of harsh realities and corrupt rulers. With determination and resilience, Elminster sets out to change the world around him, ultimately becoming a powerful mage and reshaping the realm. This novel is the first in a series, offering a rich tapestry of magical fantasy set within the iconic Dungeons & Dragons universe. It explores themes of power, destiny, and the struggle against evil, all while providing a captivating backstory to one of the most beloved characters in fantasy literature.

Reviews
Reddit - r/Fantasy · 2023-01-01
good 4.00

The book is praised for its traditional D&D magic and is seen as a good origin story for a character similar to Gandalf. It is noted for its engaging portrayal of a young mage's journey.

This book is a standout for fans of traditional D&D magic, offering a rich and engaging origin story for a character reminiscent of Gandalf. The reviewer highlights how the narrative effectively portrays the trials and growth of a young mage, making it a compelling read for those interested in the fantasy genre. They appreciate the depth of the world-building and the character development, which adds layers to the story and keeps readers invested. Overall, it's a solid choice for anyone looking to explore the origins of a powerful wizard in a well-crafted fantasy setting.

Quick quotes

    It's more traditional D&D magic than anything but Elminster: Making of a Mage by Ed Greenwood is a good book of how the Gandalf equivalent ...

    The mage isn't in it a lot, but the book "Misenchanted Sword" has a grouchy loner wizard who accidentally gave immortality to an soldier who ...

    Forgetten Realm book as well (I think it is Elminster: Making of a mage, by Ed Greenwood)

Ebooks.com · 2023-01-01
good 4.00

The book is described as an epic fantasy origin story set in the Forgotten Realms, with a young protagonist navigating a world of corruption and sorcery. It is noted for its immersive setting and engaging narrative.

This epic fantasy origin story is set in the rich and immersive world of the Forgotten Realms, where a young protagonist is thrust into a dangerous world of corruption and sorcery. The reviewer appreciates the detailed world-building and the engaging narrative that keeps readers hooked. The story effectively portrays the challenges and growth of the young mage, making it a compelling read for fantasy enthusiasts. The setting is particularly praised for its depth and authenticity, adding to the overall enjoyment of the book.

Quick quotes

    A young Elminster is thrust into a dangerous world of corruption and sorcery in this epic fantasy origin story set in Dungeons & Dragons' Forgotten Realms!

    The mage isn't in it a lot, but the book "Misenchanted Sword" has a grouchy loner wizard who accidentally gave immortality to an soldier who ...

    Forgetten Realm book as well (I think it is Elminster: Making of a mage, by Ed Greenwood)

Amazon · 2023-01-01
good 4.00

The book is praised for its engaging portrayal of a young mage's journey in a world filled with corruption and sorcery. It is noted for its immersive setting and compelling narrative.

This book offers an engaging and immersive journey into the life of a young mage navigating a world filled with corruption and sorcery. The reviewer highlights the compelling narrative and the richly detailed setting, which adds depth to the story. The character development is particularly praised, as it effectively portrays the growth and trials of the protagonist. The book is a great choice for fans of epic fantasy, offering a blend of adventure and intrigue that keeps readers invested throughout.

Quick quotes

    A young Elminster is thrust into a dangerous world of corruption and sorcery in this epic fantasy origin story set in Dungeons & Dragons' Forgotten Realms!

    The mage isn't in it a lot, but the book "Misenchanted Sword" has a grouchy loner wizard who accidentally gave immortality to an soldier who ...

    Forgetten Realm book as well (I think it is Elminster: Making of a mage, by Ed Greenwood)

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