From Publishers Weekly
Set in the same universe as Saberhagen's excellent Empire of the East, this book continues its sitcom spin-off exploitation of the original fantasy concept. For a game, the Gods created 12 Swords of Power, giving them to humans for use and misuse. But the Swords were more powerful than the Gods, and now only the Swords remain, with humans scheming to steal them from each other. All the Lost Sword stories involve the family of Prince Mark and Princess Kristin. Here, Mindsword, when drawn, compels complete loyalty and love to the wielder. Neighboring Prince Murat hopes to win Kristin's respect by giving her the Sword, but as in a Shakespearian comedy, he finds himself gathering a horde of followers, all proclaiming their devotion, and all of whom would turn on him in anger if released from Mindsword's spell. Like cotton candy, this is an enjoyable quick read, with little substance. Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.


From Library Journal
Intended as a peace offering from Prince Murat to the Princess Kristin, the Mindsword--one of the legendary weapons used in the war that brought about the death of the gods--plunges two countries into near-war as the well-meaning Murat falls victim to the sword's seductive powers. Saberhagen treads a fine line between fantasy and moral fable in his latest addition to a popular series. Purchase where the other "Swords" books are popular.Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.


Review
"One of the best writers in the business." --Stephen R. Donaldson

"Fred Saberhagen has proved he is one of the best." --Lester del Rey



Review
"One of the best writers in the business." --Stephen R. Donaldson

"Fred Saberhagen has proved he is one of the best." --Lester del Rey



Book Description
Long ago, the gods forged Twelve Swords of Power and threw them on the gameboard of life for men to scramble over. But they forged too well; the Swords could kill the gods themselves.

Now the great Mindsword reenters the world of men, bringing others' mindless devotion to him who wields it: Prince Murat of Culm, who intends to give it to Princess Kristin of Tasavalta. But first he draws it--and receives worship from his own son, from the princess herself, and from a horrifying "ally."

It is up to Prince Mark of Tasavalta: his wife and kingdom, and the world, all may be lost to the Mindsword.



About the Author
In addition to the popular Dracula Series, Fred Saberhagen is the author of the popular Berserker (tm) Series and the bestselling Lost Swords and Book of Lost Swords. Fred Saberhagen lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

The Mindsword--he who wields it given mindless devotion--has been lost for years, since the Dar King's defeat and the death of the gods. When it comes into the hands of Prince Murat, Prince Mark must do battle for his beloved wife, the kingdom, and perhaps for the soul of the world.

FROM THE CRITICS

Publishers Weekly

Set in the same universe as Saberhagen's excellent Empire of the East, this book continues its sitcom spin-off exploitation of the original fantasy concept. For a game, the Gods created 12 Swords of Power, giving them to humans for use and misuse. But the Swords were more powerful than the Gods, and now only the Swords remain, with humans scheming to steal them from each other. All the Lost Sword stories involve the family of Prince Mark and Princess Kristin. Here, Mindsword, when drawn, compels complete loyalty and love to the wielder. Neighboring Prince Murat hopes to win Kristin's respect by giving her the Sword, but as in a Shakespearian comedy, he finds himself gathering a horde of followers, all proclaiming their devotion, and all of whom would turn on him in anger if released from Mindsword's spell. Like cotton candy, this is an enjoyable quick read, with little substance. (Dec.)

Library Journal