Via Suvudu:
I have just finished a 10,000 word short (?) story that takes place just before Allanon sets out to find Shea Ohmsford in Sword. I will be posting it online in a few months on all the major sites as an ebook for readers who want something new leading up to publication of the Annotated Edition of The Sword of Shannara and the first book in the new Shannara’s Dark Legacy, coming in late August. I haven’t done anything with Allanon in almost 30 years, so it really was time for a new story. Keep your eye out for it on our website and on all the major book burying sites.
As an unabashed Shannara fanboy (and the pre-Morgawr books, in particular) this is great news. I recently read Brooks’ only other short story, Imaginary Friends, and was reminded of what a fine storyteller he can be when he really digs into a story and gives it the meat that his newer novels seem to lack. It might seem odd suggesting that Brooks might find this meatier writing by writing short fiction, rather than longer fiction, but there was a certain thoughtfulness to Imaginary Friends that gives me confidence. Brooks has said before that he doesn’t feel that he’s very good at short fiction; to counter that, I think that challenge is a good thing for a writer and his recent novels have seemed somewhat staid and too easy, suggesting that a challenge is exactly what the veteran writers needs. I am Very much looking forward to seeing Brooks stretch his story telling muscle by revisiting one of his most interesting characters.
“was reminded of what a fine storyteller he can be when he really digs into a story and gives it the meat that his newer novels seem to lack.”
Yes, this.
Also, I think if Brooks maybe went *two* years in between books rather than forcing one a year, the quality would improve. But, I don’t think he’s interested in that depth of storytelling anymore. Not like what we got with Elfstones.
I think you and I are the last Shannara fans left Aidan…but hell I’ll be reading this. :D